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dr. heather morrison, left, p.e.i.'s chief public health officer, and p.e.i. minister of health and wellness cory deagle hold a copy of the province's updated alcohol strategy.
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the government of prince edward island has released a provincial alcohol strategy with a goal of balancing alcohol‑related harm reduction with making communities safer.
the strategy focuses on prevention with approaches that promise to improve health across communities. in a news release, health and wellness minister cory deagle says the strategy aims to reduce pressure on the health-care system, improve public safety and help islanders to make informed decisions that support their health.
“this strategy is a balanced plan to promote the health and well‑being of islanders,” deagle said. “alcohol harms are too high, impacting families, community safety, and putting strain on our health system. by strengthening prevention and modernizing policy, we are taking meaningful steps to reduce those harms.”
the document includes 16 focused and practical recommendations, as well as action items to be implemented over time, in partnership with communities and partners. it was developed by the department of health and wellness in partnership with the departments of finance and affordability; transportation, infrastructure and energy; and justice and public safety, along with input from more than 1,100 islanders, community organizations and partners.
about 76 per cent of island residents aged 15 and older reporting using alcohol in the past year. alcohol-related costs exceed $131 million annually (47 per cent of all substance use costs) and are $61 million higher than alcohol revenues.
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