SASKATOON - An organization that operates Saskatoon's only supervised drug consumption site says Health Canada has temporarily shut down the facility.Â
Prairie Harm Reduction said this week the department suspended the organization's exemption to operate the site last week.
It comes after the organization had reported a major financial deficit and fired its executive director.Â
"This is unfortunate, but not unexpected," Prairie Harm Reduction said Monday on social media.Â
It said Health Canada closely monitors consumption sites and that it's working to provide the requested information to lift the suspension.Â
"(Prairie Harm Reduction) respects and fully supports Health Canada's regulatory role and remains committed to meeting and exceeding Health Canada's requirements," it said.
It added the drop-in centre, which is attached to the consumption site but separated by a wall, remains open.Â
Health Canada didn't immediately respond to a request for comment on the suspension.
Last week, Prairie Harm Reduction said it's struggling with major finance issues after spending more money than it should have to deal with growing demand.
It has said it's seeking urgent financial aid to continue operating all of its services.Â
The organization also provides semi-independent housing for families and youth with high needs and has received provincial funding for such programs.Â
It said this week it's continuing to work on the financial review.
"We anticipate receiving a more detailed preliminary report from our external financial experts in early April," it said.
Prairie Harm Reduction has also hired a specialist to oversee day-to-day operations and support the board and staff.Â
This report by ¹ú²úÓÕ»ó¸£Àû was first published March 30, 2026.