About the Provincial Alcohol Strategy (2026)
Building a Healthier, Safer Prince Edward Island
The Provincial Alcohol Strategy is a Government of Prince Edward Island initiative focused on improving health and safety by reducing alcohol-related costs and harms across the province. It emphasizes prevention and evidence-based action to support the health of all Islanders.
Why this Strategy Matters
Alcohol is widely used in PEI, but it is also a leading cause of preventable disease, injury, and death.
• 1 in 3 Islanders drinks at levels considered high risk
• Alcohol is linked to serious health issues, including cancer, heart disease, and liver disease
• Alcohol contributes to 135 deaths and nearly 7,000 hospital visits per year in PEI
• Alcohol-related costs in PEI are over $131 million per year, and are $61 million higher than alcohol revenues
What the Strategy Focuses On
Actions in the strategy fall under four priority areas:
- Preventative service delivery
- Healthy public policy
- Public safety and enforcement
- Public awareness
The Provincial Alcohol Strategy was developed with input from more than 1,100 Islanders, community organizations, and partners over several years.
What This Means for Islanders
• Lower risk of health issues like cancer and heart disease
• Improved mental health, sleep, and energy
• Safer roads and communities
• Prevention for youth
• Reduced costs and pressures on the healthcare system
The strategy does not propose increasing alcohol sales taxes or reducing the number of PEI Liquor outlets. The strategy is focused on “off-premise” outlets (PEI Liquor Control Commission), where most alcohol is sold, instead of “on-premise” outlets like bars and restaurants.
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