An opioid manufacturer has agreed to a first of its kind settlement which will provide compensation to all federal, provincial and territorial governments in Canada, to partially compensate for the damage that opioid addiction has caused. The Purdue Pharma Canada settlement totals $150-million to be shared by the various levels of government, including Saskatchewan, to address opioid addictions. The agreement is still subject to final approval by the courts.

A news release from the province says it is expected to be the largest government health claim settlement in Canadian history. Mental Health and Addictions Minister, Everett Hindley, says, “Opioid manufacturers, distributors and consultants have a responsibility to provide compensation for their role in the suffering of the many Saskatchewan residents struggling with opioid addiction.” He adds that while no amount of money makes up for the losses, the province is committed to holding the industry accountable.

Purdue Pharma is one of 40 manufacturers and distributors named in a class action suit from the federal, provincial and territorial governments which alleges these parties engaged in deceptive marketing practices, resulting in increased rates of addiction and overdose.