New push to tackle problems in Vancouver's Downtown Eastside, and why compassion may be failing the neighbourhood

Vancouver’s Downtown Eastside has long dealt with social issues stemming from homelessness and addiction, and to many, the situation has only gotten worse. Social agencies are feeling the strain, and the public is pressuring politicians to do more to solve the problem. Vancouver Sun columnist Douglas Todd joins the show to discuss why there’s a feeling that the problems are worse than ever, the new B.C. premier’s controversial proposals to address some of the issues, and how public compassion could be failing the people in the Downtown Eastside. Background reading: Douglas Todd: Why compassion is failing Vancouver’s most distressed neighbourhood David Eby's bold plan to take ownership of the DTES Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices