Media Advisory - White House Drug Policy Director Makes First Visit to
Ottawa, Attends Launch of First National Youth Drug Prevention Standards

OTTAWA, Nov. 18 /CNW/ - The Canadian Centre on Substance Abuse (CCSA) will host the first visit to Canada by Gil Kerlikowske, Director of the U.S. Office of National Drug Control Policy. Director Kerlikowske will be available to the media on a number of occasions on Monday, November 22.

The first will be when CCSA releases its new Portfolio of Canadian Standards for Youth Substance Abuse Prevention. This event is an excellent opportunity to speak with both Director Kerlikowske and CCSA CEO Michel Perron about domestic strategies in Canada and the U.S. to manage substance abuse, as well as a chance to explore broader key issues such as drug-impaired driving, prescription drug use and general drug prevention. In the evening, Director Kerlikowske will deliver a keynote address at CCSA's Board Meeting.

Canadian Standards for Youth Substance Abuse Prevention

What:	The unveiling of Canada's first national standards for professionals working in youth drug prevention treatment, including school-, community- and family-based programs
When:	Monday, November 22, 2010 10:00 a.m.
Where:	Fairmont Chateau Laurier, Quebec Room
Who:	Gil Kerlikowske, Director of the U.S. Office of National Drug Control Policy Michel Perron, CEO of the Canadian Centre on Substance Abuse Representatives who will use this valuable new resource (including Bill Tucker, Canadian Association of Principals, and Dr. Nancy Haley, Montreal Public Health)

CCSA's Board Meeting

What:	Key stakeholders will gather for an evening reception as part of CCSA's Board Meeting
When:	Monday, November 22, 2010 Dinner and remarks 7:00 to 9:00 p.m. (media availability following keynote)
Where:	The Westin Ottawa, Governor General Ballroom (media availability in the Quebec Room)
Who:	Keynote speaker: Gil Kerlikowske, Director of the U.S. Office of National Drug Control Policy

About CCSA:

With a legislated mandate to reduce alcohol- and other drug-related harms, the Canadian Centre on Substance Abuse (CCSA) provides leadership on national priorities, fosters knowledge translation within the field, and creates sustainable partnerships that maximize collective efforts. CCSA receives funding support from Health Canada.

For further information:

Donna Lindell, Playbook Communications
Tel.: [phone] ext. 166
Cell: 416-500-4121
[email protected]