Manitoba passes detox centre legislation, but doctors say involuntary detention not the answer

Some medical professionals say detaining highly intoxicated people for up to three days could put lives at risk if it's not accompanied by proper care.

On Wednesday, the Manitoba Legislature passed the NDP government's Bill 48, the Protective Detention and Care of Intoxicated Persons Act, which will allow it to establish a "protective care centre," or detox facility.

But Dr. Jim Simm, the province's former chief psychiatrist, said there's little precedent backing it up.

"There's been several studies looking at involuntary treatment for substance use. The results are generally actually worse," he said.

"I am skeptical [the centre] would have positive results, and [it has] the added risk of medical complications without proper medical supervision."