Advocates are raising concerns about where Winnipeg will find paramedics to staff a new overdose response team, as the city grapples with a persistent shortage of emergency medical personnel. The proposed team, aimed at reducing overdose deaths, would require specialized staff trained in addiction medicine and crisis intervention, but critics argue the city lacks the resources to support such an initiative without compromising existing services.
Paramedic shortage deepens
Winnipeg has faced a chronic shortage of paramedics for years, with wait times for ambulances increasing and response times lagging behind national standards. The addition of a dedicated overdose response team would further strain an already overburdened system. "We simply don't have the paramedics to staff this team without pulling them from other critical calls," said a spokesperson for the Manitoba Paramedic Association. "This could put patients at risk."
The shortage is attributed to low wages, high burnout rates, and difficulty retaining staff in rural and remote areas. The province has attempted to address the issue through recruitment bonuses and training programs, but advocates say these measures have not kept pace with demand.
Overdose crisis worsens
Manitoba has seen a sharp increase in overdose deaths in recent years, driven by the toxic drug supply. In 2025, the province recorded over 400 overdose fatalities, a 20% increase from the previous year. The proposed response team would include paramedics, nurses, and peer support workers who could provide on-site treatment and connect individuals to addiction services.
"This team could save lives, but only if it is properly staffed and funded," said Dr. Sarah Thompson, an addiction medicine specialist at the University of Manitoba. "We need a comprehensive strategy that addresses both the immediate crisis and the underlying workforce issues."
Political debate intensifies
The issue has sparked debate among provincial and municipal leaders. Manitoba Premier Wab Kinew has pledged to invest in healthcare, including paramedic services, but has not specified how the overdose response team would be funded. Winnipeg Mayor Scott Gillingham has called on the province to provide additional resources, warning that the city cannot absorb the costs alone.
Opposition critics argue that the government has failed to prioritize emergency services. "This is a classic example of the NDP promising more than they can deliver," said Conservative health critic Dr. Jon Gerrard. "They need to show us the plan and the money."
As the debate continues, advocates urge swift action. "Every day we wait, more lives are lost," said Emily Carter, executive director of the Manitoba Harm Reduction Network. "We need a solution that works for everyone."
