Crown prosecutors were directed by the Director of Public Prosecutions a few years ago to not charge people for simple possession of controlled substances, unless there are major public safety concerns.

These guidelines were published in the Public Prosecution Service of Canada Deskbook, and are currently still in effect, with recommendations for alternatives to jail time or fines for these offences like restorative justice.

Dr. Robert Kitchen, Member of Parliament for the Souris-Moose Mountain riding, said that his party has talked, concerning issues along those lines.

"When you see the things that have transpired over just the past week, where there have been repeat offenders getting out and the challenges along those lines, those are a concern."

Dr. Kitchen added that, "It's troubling to see where we have a process with this government that is taking steps that unfortunately, I think, are enhancing the situation versus stepping up and providing assistance and treatment to assist those that have become addicted to drugs."