A union representing library workers in Saskatchewan urges Premier Scott Moe’s government to tackle drug addiction and related violence in public libraries. Libraries across the province increasingly serve as makeshift shelters, exposing staff to serious risks.
Workers Confront Overdoses and Assaults
Kent Peterson, president of the union representing Saskatchewan library employees, highlights severe incidents including overdoses witnessed by staff and workers losing fingers in machete attacks. At a news conference in Saskatoon, Peterson joined the Opposition NDP to demand substantial investments in community services.
“Library workers don’t want to turn people in need away, but they are not addictions experts, they aren’t security guards, and they aren’t mental health counselors,” Peterson stated. “It’s dangerous for library workers and it’s dangerous for library patrons.”
Recent Library Closures in Saskatoon
Last year, two library branches in Saskatoon shut down temporarily due to escalating drug use and violence. NDP health critic Vicki Mowat warns that the toxic drug crisis worsens, with the city’s homeless population growing larger than before.
“Library workers are not first responders, and they should not be left to do the job of the provincial government,” Mowat said. “We need more support for library workers to ensure they can do their jobs efficiently and are safe at work. We also need to tackle homelessness, addictions, and crime, along with their root causes.”
Government Responds with Treatment Expansion
Social Services Minister Terry Jenson notes that the province already expands treatment spaces and deploys outreach teams to assist individuals in Saskatoon, guiding them toward appropriate services.
“We have outreach teams that meet people in place to provide supports and direct them where they need to go,” Jenson said. He acknowledges more efforts are required but stresses that solutions demand time and collaboration among municipalities, the province, the federal government, Indigenous partners, and community organizations.
“This is not something that will be solved with a snap of the finger,” Jenson added. “It requires collaboration and cooperation from all levels.”
