PROGRESS ON YOUTH ADDICTION TREATMENT FACILITY

A 15-bed youth inpatient addiction treatment facility in Prince Albert is a step closer to reality. The new facility will offer a four to six week treatment program for youth age 12 to 17.

A capital funding agreement has been signed by the Prince Albert Grand Council (PAGC), Prince Albert Parkland Regional Health Authority (PAPRHA) and the Ministry of Health. The agreement covers construction and operation of the facility. It allows funding to be released to the PAGC for project-related costs, and paves the way for a tender to be issued in the spring for construction of the facility.

"Our government is committed to providing addiction facilities and services that meet the needs of our province's youth," Health Minister Don McMorris said. "We need to make sure help is available to our most vulnerable young people, so that they can deal with their addictions, recover and realize their full potential as productive, healthy adults."

The project will be funded entirely by the provincial government. The Ministry of Health has committed approximately $4.6 million for capital expenses and $1.9 million for annual operating costs.

"By working together in a cohesive and shared approach with the provincial government, we can be better prepared to help our youth deal with the challenges they face battling substance abuse issues," Prince Albert Grand Council Vice-Chief Edward Henderson said.

"The Prince Albert Parkland Health Region is excited about this project, which has taken another important step forward," Prince Albert Parkland RHA board chairperson Gord Dobrowolsky said. "There is a significant need not only in this Region but throughout the province to help young people who are struggling with substance abuse. We know this facility and the staff who will work there will help make a difference in the lives of many young people and their families."

The PAGC and the Ministry of Health are working in partnership with Prince Albert Parkland Health Region on program planning. The region is providing six interim youth addiction treatment beds until the facility opens.

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For more information, contact:

Karen Hill
Health
Regina
Phone: 306-787-4083

Vice-Chief Henderson
Prince Albert Grand Council
Prince Albert
Phone: 306-961-1907

Doug Dahl
Prince Albert Parkland Regional Health Authority
Prince Albert
Phone: 306-765-6409