MINISTRY AND PARTNERS GET TOGETHER IN SASKATOON FOR TOBACCO REDUCTION SYMPOSIUM

The Saskatchewan Government continues its commitment to reduce tobacco use and build a healthier province by hosting a two-day symposium, under the umbrella of the provincial tobacco reduction strategy.

The event got underway this morning in Saskatoon when Health Minister Don McMorris formally released the strategy document Building a Healthier Saskatchewan: a strategy to reduce tobacco use.

The symposium is an important component of the provincial tobacco strategy and is intended to strengthen the skills of those working in tobacco reduction and encourage involvement at a local, regional and provincial level.

Close to 100 participants will be attending the two-day event. Among those are people working with regional health authorities in the areas of mental health and addictions, health promotion, oral heath, public health inspection and tobacco enforcement. Participants also include those working with schools such as parent associations, health associations, other ministries, and First Nations and Métis organizations.

The symposium will build on the tobacco reduction work being done in the province, inspire others to become involved, and begin dialogue about the supports needed to sustain the strategy in Saskatchewan. Speakers from Saskatchewan and other provinces will highlight the importance of local policy development, engaging youth in tobacco reduction and cessation programs.

"It is widely recognized that smoking contributes to significant health problems for smokers and those exposed to environmental tobacco smoke," McMorris said. "Several stakeholders have been closely involved in planning and organizing this event and I would like to thank them for their contribution. Our government is looking at all strategies to reduce tobacco use in Saskatchewan."

Provincial partners have been involved in the development of the tobacco strategy and are working collaboratively with the ministry to reduce tobacco use in Saskatchewan.

Some elements of the tobacco reduction strategy have already been implemented such as recent legislative changes to The Tobacco Control Act.

Building a Healthier Saskatchewan: a strategy to reduce tobacco use is available on the Ministry of Health website at http://www.health.gov.sk.ca/smoking-and-your-health.

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For more information, contact:

Tyler McMurchy
Health
Regina
Phone: 306-787-4083
Email: tmcmurchy@health.gov.sk.ca