PUBLIC INVITED TO DISCUSS YOUTH ADDICTIONS STRATEGY

Three evenings of public consultation are scheduled across P.E.I.
this week to discuss the draft P.E.I. Youth Substance Use and
Addictions Strategy.

The P.E.I. Department of Health has been working closely with a
number of government agencies and the public over the past year to
research and prepare the report.

The draft strategy is now available online for Islanders to review.
This week's meetings begin tonight and continue Tuesday and Wednesday.

Health Minister Doug Currie says finding a long-term solution for
Island youth struggling with addictions is a top priority for government.

"We know that early intervention and education are key in helping
young people who are tempted to experiment with drugs or alcohol. The
strategy will help those who have already gone down that road.
Educators, community leaders, parents and family members need to have
input on the strategy as we move forward."

The sessions are being held tonight in the lecture theatre at Colonel
Gray High School in Charlottetown; Dec. 18 at Montague Intermediate
School gymnasium; and Dec. 19, at the Three Oaks

Senior High School cafeteria in Summerside.

All three sessions will begin at 6:45 p.m. and the public will be
invited to share their opinions on the draft strategy.