The RCMP relies on public support to combat drug-related crime. In accordance with the law, the RCMP respects the privacy and confidentiality of persons who provide drug-related information. To achieve the priorities of the drug enforcement strategy, a number of initiatives in addition to the aforementioned were developed and implemented in a concerted effort to reduce the supply and demand for drugs. Liaison is maintained with Interpol, United Nations, Organization of American States, provincial and municipal police departments, National Defence, Fisheries and Oceans, Correctional Service Canada, Canadian Coastal Guard, Customs authorities and drug enforcement agencies worldwide, such as the Drug Enforcement Administration, FBI and U.S. Customs. Canada's heroin user population is estimated at between 25,000 and 30,000 persons, with the largest user population being situated in the cities of Montreal, Vancouver and Toronto.
Cocaine is widely available and abuse levels are increasing.
Accessibility is particularly evident in larger metropolitan areas, although it is also available in the more remote and isolated areas. Primary sources of chemical drugs such as MDA, PCP and methamphetamine are domestic clandestine laboratories, diversion from pharmaceutical supplies and illicit imports of clandestinely manufactured and diverted drugs. The most widely available and extensively used illicit drugs in Canada are cannabis derivatives, i.e. marihuana, hashish and liquid hashish. These drugs are more frequently encountered in densely populated areas, but virtually no community remains untouched by cannabis abuse.