The First Minister said the evidence from the US showed lives had been saved as he confirmed plans for a facility in Glasgow.
She said if a facility was opened it would "not be in the public interest" to prosecute individuals for possession.During a visit to New York, Yousaf met with Public Health Commissioner Dr Ashwin Vasan to hear about the city’s experience of consumption rooms. “In fact, there has only been a single 911 call from either of the safe consumption rooms in the City since they were established, and drug users’ engagement with other key services – public health, mental health and social services – have all increased as a result of the centres.
“There have been no fatalities. And you’re doing it in a site that’s surrounded by mental health care, primary care, basic needs like food and social supports and benefits and temporary shelter and the chance to stabilize. Bringing that out of the shadows is crucial.”