Growing encampments prompt Ontario mayors to call for forced treatment

Brampton Mayor Patrick Brown is advocating for involuntary treatment programs in Ontario, calling it “compassionate intervention” to address severe mental health and addiction crises. The Ontario Big City Mayors (OBCM) caucus is set to vote on a similar resolution that could invoke the notwithstanding clause to implement these programs despite potential constitutional challenges. The proposal is inspired by British Columbia’s controversial initiative, though experts, including the Canadian Mental Health Association, warn of the risks and recommend its use as a last resort. Premier Doug Ford expressed cautious interest, stating further review is necessary, while the province’s health minister downplayed the immediate prospect of such measures.