REPORT FROM PARLIAMENT

Those of us who are in good health tend to take it for granted. Not until an illness strikes us, a friend, or a family member are we reminded how drastically life can change. Recognizing that health, safety and family are of critical importance to Canadians; your Conservative Government has taken action.

Health issues affect us all. No matter our age, income, gender or occupation. We recognize that young children are amongst the most vulnerable members of our society, and as such, your government proposed regulatory action to prevent the use of certain chemicals in toys and other products to which young children are regularly exposed. Canada was the first country to move ahead with regulations to prohibit Bisphenol A, (BPA), a potentially harmful chemical used in plastic baby bottles. We have also put forward proposed regulations to limit the lead content in products such as pacifiers, teethers, baby bottle nipples and drinking cup spouts.

Amendments to the Tobacco act is another of our initiatives designed to protect the health of our young people. Tens of thousands of Canadians suffer from diseases and complications associated with the use of tobacco products. Studies have shown that most people who smoke regularly began to smoke before the age of 19. When tobacco products that added candy like flavourings were being marketed towards teenagers your government acted, making amendments to the Tobacco Act to address marketing practices. Your Conservative government strongly believes that tobacco is not candy, and should not be treated, or presented to our children as such.

Millions of Canadians are affected by various respiratory diseases causing distress to the affected individual and their caregivers. We provided $10 million over three years to support lung health initiatives that help Canadians prevent, detect and manage respiratory diseases.

Through the introduction of MedEffect Canada both consumers and health-care professionals can now report suspected side effects from health products and keep up-to-date on important safety information.

Your Conservative government recognizes that every Canadian is different with distinctive health concerns. Canada already has one of the best health-care systems in the world, and we are committed to ensuring our policies, programs and services continue to meet the needs of all Canadians.

Hon. Gerry Ritz is the Member of Parliament for Battlefords-Lloydminster www.gerryritzmp.ca