Ontario Premier Doug Ford will hold a press conference on Thursday morning to introduce legislation targeting homeless encampments and public drug use. The event is scheduled for 10 a.m. ET at Queen’s Park, with Ford joined by several cabinet ministers, including those responsible for health, housing, and mental health.
The proposed legislation aims to give municipalities more resources and authority to dismantle encampments and enforce a ban on public drug use. It also includes tougher penalties for repeat offenders. Ford stated he is prepared to invoke the notwithstanding clause to override the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms if courts block the measures.
This announcement follows a request from a group of Ontario mayors for stronger laws to address involuntary addiction treatment and encampment removals. Some mayors, such as those from Toronto and Hamilton, have criticized Ford’s approach, while others have expressed support for the use of the notwithstanding clause.
Homelessness has significantly increased during Ford’s time as premier, with tent cities becoming more common in communities across the province. The Association of Municipalities of Ontario reported 1,400 encampments in 2023. Meanwhile, shelter systems are overwhelmed, with Toronto alone accommodating around 12,000 people.
Opposition parties have accused Ford’s government of failing to build affordable housing and adequately support shelter systems, leaving municipalities to handle the growing crisis.
