The RNC is welcoming any additional attention on efforts to combat the illicit drug trade.

Ottawa has offered assurances to the United States about increased border security measures to prevent fentanyl from entering the US from Canada.

While only a fraction of the fentanyl brought into the United States is coming across the Canadian border, that doesn’t mean Canadian officials haven’t been concerned about the illicit use of the powerful opioid.

Law enforcement agencies across Canada, including here in Newfoundland and Labrador, have been taking greater measures to disrupt the import, production and distribution of fentanyl across the country. Last fall, a so-called fentanyl and meth “superlab” was dismantled in the British Columbia wilderness.

This province has seen a series of recent high-visibility drug busts and ongoing investigations involving both RNC and RCMP.

RNC Constable James Cadigan says there are a number of serious substances in circulation that are of concern to police.

He says for police officers, it’s not only a public safety issue, but a workplace safety issue, and the increased attention is being welcomed by law enforcement says Cadigan.