Kathryn Hannah, R.N., Ph.D.
and Kevin Chan, M.D.
Co-Chairs Canadian
Society for International Health
1 Nicholas Street, Suite 1105 Ottawa,
Ontario K1N 7B7
Dear Dr. Hannah and Dr. Chan:
Thank you for your letter of June 20, 2001, regarding health services and human and environmental health.
I would like to inform you that many of the issues you raise concerning the World Trade Organization (WTO) reform and the G-8 Summit in 2002, fall under the responsibility of the Honourable Pierre Pettigrew, Minister of International Trade, and the Honourable John Manley, Minister of Foreign Affairs. I have, therefore, taken the liberty of forwarding a copy of your letter to them for their consideration.
You also raise concerns about the effects of globalization and trade on social systems, such as health. As the Minister of Health, I would like to assure you of the Government's commitment to protecting our health system and health services. Canada's right to regulate and protect its health services is fully preserved under the North American Free Trade Agreement That means that the federal, provincial and territorial governments maintain the flexibility and control they need to operate and decide what is best for the health system.
The Government will protect Canada's health system in present and future trade negotiations as well. Canada will not negotiate its health services in negotiations at the WTO, under the General Agreement on Trade in Services (GATS) , or in the Free Trade area of the Americas. Canadian governments, at all levels, will preserve their policy flexibility and ability to adopt and maintain regulations, administrative practices and other measures in the health sector.
I appreciate the opportunity to address your concerns. With best wishes.
Yours very truly,
Allan Rock
c.c. : The Honourable Pierre S. Pettigrew, P.C., M.P.
The Honourable John Manley, P.C., M.P.
