The Saskatchewan NDP is calling for the Sask Party government to step in and improve funding for Sask Polytechnic’s addictions counselling program.

This comes as Sask Polytech cut 37 positions in June, with addictions counselling instructors among the cuts.

Health critic Vicki Mowat says these positions are needed, especially considering the recent overdose deaths this year.

“This program has been highlighted as existing because of the need for this type of position,” said Mowat. “The fact that we need theses addictions counselors, and the demand is higher than we can meet, is even listed on their website as a draw toward the program.”

According to the coroner’s office, Saskatchewan has seen more deaths confirmed or suspected to be related to overdoses this year than any of the last 10 years.