Yukon NDP calls for free Naloxone nasal spray

November 10, 2021

Whitehorse, YT — The Yukon NDP is celebrating the unanimous support of Motion No. 200, urging the government to act on calls from the Council of Yukon First Nations and frontline NGOs by making naloxone nasal spray publicly available and free of charge at frontline agencies, government facilities, and pharmacies.

“Making Naloxone nasal spray available means that more overdoses can be reversed. This motion is about equipping as many people as possible with a life-saving tool. This is about preventing death.”

• Kate White, Leader of the Yukon NDP

By August, the Yukon had lost 14 people to overdoses, all of which involved fentanyl.

One of the simplest ways to prevent an overdose is by administering nasal naloxone spray. Nasal sprays are easier and less intimidating to use than needles.

“People are dying and naloxone nasal spray can mean the difference between life and death. It’s a simple decision.”

• Emily Tredger, MLA Whitehorse Centre

Until now, getting naloxone nasal spray has been difficult, expensive, and complicated. There are too many barriers to saving Yukoners’ lives — from getting doctor’s appointments and prescriptions, to getting private insurance coverage.  

“I think about my work as a frontline worker and the importance of supporting people. It is our responsibility as decision-makers in the Yukon to do what we can to save lives.”

• Annie Blake, MLA Vuntut Gwitchin

The Yukon NDP looks forward to seeing the government make Naloxone nasal spray publicly available and free of charge to all Yukoners who need it.

This decision will save lives.

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