There will soon be a day treatment program for addicted youth in Charlottetown, but the P.E.I. government has no current plans for a residential treatment program.

The day program is an important first step, said Health Minister Doug Currie. (CBC)

During a CBC Forum on youth addiction last November, the government committed to building a youth addictions facility within two years. There has been talk about one for years; currently youth requiring residential treatment have to go to New Brunswick.

Health Minister Doug Currie told CBC News Thursday any residential treatment program is a ways off, but the day program is an important first step in the addictions strategy.

"Build a day program, build relationships, but also to most importantly build a preventive education and early intervention strategy around this program as we reach out into the school system," said Currie.

The program is voluntary. Youth will choose whether to check in at the start of the day, and they will have to go home at night. Clinicians and counsellors will be available at the centre.

Whether treatment should be voluntary or forced has also been an issue for the government, and it is maintaining its position of voluntary treatment only.

Opposition leader Olive Crane is applauding government for doing something about youth addictions, but said it needs to follow through with the next step.

"Everybody realizes we need to have a year-round residential in-house program for youth on Prince Edward Island," said Crane.

The province plans to begin hiring for the new day program in January.