Purdue Pharma Canada is proposing a settlement of $150 million to be shared by various levels of government in addressing opioid addictions.
The agreement is subject to final approval by the courts and is expected to be the largest governmental health claim settlement in Canadian history and the first time Purdue Pharma Canada has agreed to settle with a non-U.S. government, according to the Saskatchewan government.
Officials say Saskatchewan is included in the class action payment to federal, provincial and territorial governments for a portion of the damage opioid addiction has caused.
Purdue Pharma Canada is one among 40 manufacturers and distributors named in the class action. As part of this settlement, Purdue Pharma Canada agrees to cooperate in the prosecution of other parties. The suit alleges that these parties engaged in deceptive marketing practice, resulting in increased rates of addiction and overdose.
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, and this settlement will assist in those efforts.”
2021 saw the highest number of opioid-related harms on record in Saskatchewan, according to authorities.