Government of Canada to Work with Ontario and Ottawa to Prevent Substance Abuse Among Youth in the National Capital

News Release
2009-13
February 10, 2009
For immediate release

OTTAWA - Pierre Poilievre, Member of Parliament for Nepean-Carleton, on behalf of the Honourable Leona Aglukkaq, Minister of Health, announced today the Government of Canada's intention to support S.T.E.P. (Support, Treatment, Education and Prevention), a project that provides targeted help for youth in Ottawa who are at risk of engaging in substance abuse.

"This community-based project will provide Ottawa youth with the ability to make the right decisions when it comes to addictive substances," said Minister Aglukkaq. "It is a STEP in the right direction."

This initiative is part of implementing the Government of Canada's National Anti-Drug Strategy, which was announced by Prime Minister Stephen Harper in October 2007. This project will support this strategy, which focuses on prevention, treatment and enforcement.

"Our government is taking concrete steps to support school-based educational programs that endorse prevention and early intervention for young people at risk of engaging in substance abuse," said MP Pierre Poilievre. "This project will help Ottawa youth make wise decisions and keep them on the right track."

The project will receive up to $1M in support over the next four years.

Please visit the National Anti-Drug Strategy's website for more information.

- 30 -

---

Media Enquiries:
Health Canada
(613) 957-2983

Josée Bellemare
Office of the Honourable Leona Aglukkaq
Federal Minister of Health
(613) 957-0200

Public Enquiries:
(613) 957-2991
1-866 225-0709