Thank you, Mr. Speaker. My question today is for the Minister responsible for Health and Social Services, the Honourable Jim Antoine. I wish to submit the following questions in a follow up to my Member's statement regarding support for youth addictions and treatment:
- What is the rationale for the closure of the territorial treatment centre and when was this facility closed?
- What are the current services available for youth who require addictions treatment? What is the waiting time to access the various services as compared to what they were when we had a local facility?
- Can the department provide statistics on youth who require drug and alcohol treatment?
- What is the department doing to address the issues of drug and alcohol abuse by youth and how much funding is allocated to address this issue?
- What prevention programs are currently being undertaken by the department to promote alternatives to drug and alcohol use for youth at risk?
- What funding for promotion of prevention/treatment is provided to educational institutions that are currently providing programming to address the issue?
- Is there any additional funding or resources available for school or community groups who wish to provide programs for youth at risk or those requiring support for the addiction?
- There is currently construction being undertaken on a young offenders facility. Could the Minister advise if there has been any consideration given to incorporate an addiction treatment program within this facility?
Thank you, Mr. Speaker.