251029 – Statement – PL103 – RAPLIQ
October 29, 2025 – The Coalition of Activists for Inclusion in Quebec (RAPLIQ) recognizes the human and social value of supervised consumption sites (SCS). These sites save lives, reduce the risk of overdose, and offer compassionate support to people who are often in distress. However, given the somewhat successful—if not chaotic—implementation in certain areas where public safety and order have been compromised, RAPLIQ believes it is essential to reconcile this public health objective with the safety and peace of mind of local communities, particularly when these communities include a large number of vulnerable people—children, seniors, and, notably, people with disabilities, who are also entitled to safety. Like any law, we agree that certain provisions are troubling. That said, we must at all costs avoid jeopardizing the safety of the users of these centers, as well as the families and vulnerable individuals who live, work, or pass through near these sites. We do not recommend the outright rejection of Bill 103. As an organization working with people with disabilities, their rights and safety—for which we advocate every day—cannot be relegated to the background.
SAFETY FIRST, WITHOUT EXCLUSION
We cannot ignore the realities of living side by side. When a facility is located near schools, daycare centers, or residences for the elderly or people with disabilities, it is natural for the community to be concerned. RAPLIQ believes that safety must come first: protecting those who are already vulnerable due to their physical, cognitive, or social condition is not an option—it is a collective duty. But this protection must never become an excuse to reject or stigmatize people struggling with addiction. Some of them have disabilities themselves; they deserve respect, compassion, and access to safe care.
HARMONIOUS COEXISTENCE: DIALOGUE, NOT EXCLUSION
Coexistence is not a slogan: it is a balancing act between public safety, inclusion, and humanity. RAPLIQ urges the government to adopt an approach based on consultation, prevention, and awareness-raising, rather than simply moving services farther away. Sustainable solutions will require:
- a framework adapted to local realities;
- enhanced prevention and security measures around the SCS;
- active listening to citizens and community organizations.
ACCESSIBILITY
RAPLIQ also condemns the fact that the law imposes no universal accessibility requirements on these centers. It is as if it were entirely impossible for a person in need of the services of a supervised injection site to be a person with a disability. Unfortunately, the discrimination goes that far.
A CALL FOR BALANCE
RAPLIQ supports any measure aimed at saving lives and reducing harm, without sacrificing the safety of individuals—whether vulnerable or not—as prescribed, in particular, by the Charter of Rights and Freedoms. True inclusion means protecting without excluding, and caring without marginalizing. We believe that an inclusive Quebec can—and must—do both. Experience shows that supervision is more than necessary.