Drug Awareness Week - Quebecers concerned about substance abuse, problem
deemed very real

MONTREAL, Nov. 25 /CNW Telbec/ - More than eight Quebecers on ten think drug and alcohol dependency problems are public health issues of concern. In the Léger Marketing survey "Quebecers and Substance Abuse," released today as part of Drug Awareness Week, half of respondents say they are affected by substance abuse problems among those around them.

According to the survey results, young people today are far from immune to drug dependency, since Quebecers are almost unanimous (95%) in stating that it is easy for them to obtain drugs, regardless of age group or place of residence.

"The report published today bears witness to Quebecers' widespread concern about the very real problems of drug addiction and the importance of offering substance abusers concrete help to combat their dependency," said Portage president Peter A. Howlett. "Organizations like ours play an essential role in society in that they transform former drug and alcohol abusers into productive citizens."

Two-thirds of respondents are of the opinion that private centers and public agencies must work together to effectively treat people with addiction problems. Moreover, 78% of the Quebecers polled would like more government funding for drug and alcohol abuse treatment programs.

"The survey clearly shows that substance abuse problems are a major concern for Quebecers," explained Léger Marketing president Jean-Marc Léger. "In this respect, the public's message couldn't be clearer in the poll: the people want the government to invest more in drug abuse treatment and work closely with private organizations."

To view the complete survey report, visit www.portage.ca .

Methodology
The Léger Marketing survey "Quebecers and Substance Abuse" was conducted via the Internet between November 15 and 18, 2010, drawing on the LegerWeb panel of Internet users. In total, 1,000 Quebecers age 18 and over responded to the survey. For purposes of comparison, a probability sample of the same size would have a margin of error of ±3.1%, 19 times out of 20.

About Portage
Since 1970, Portage has helped tens of thousands of substance abusers overcome their drug addiction. The organization offers a multitude of services tailored to the needs of its residents, including programs for adults, adolescents, mothers with young children, pregnant women, and substance abusers with mental health problems. Portage operates seven substance abuse treatment centers across Quebec, with facilities in Montreal, Beaconsfield, Prevost (the Laurentians), Quebec City, and Saint-Malachie (Chaudière-Appalaches). Three other establishments serve the populations of Ontario, British Colombia, and Atlantic Canada.

For more information: www.portage.ca or by telephone at 514-939-0202.

For further information: