Message from Tony Clement, Minister of Health
World AIDS Day
December 1, 2006 marks the 19th World AIDS Day, providing Canadians and all global citizens an
opportunity to acknowledge the courage and spirit of those who are living with or affected by HIV/AIDS.
Today we wear red ribbons to raise awareness, show our support to stop HIV/AIDS, and honour those
who have lost their lives.
Although there is increased knowledge of the causes and impacts of the disease,
and improved access to prevention and treatment methods, millions of people still continue to suffer
and die from AIDS-related illnesses.
Canada's New Government will be releasing Canada's Report on
HIV/AIDS 2006, Action and Accountability. This report outlines the important work being done under
the Federal Initiative to Address HIV/AIDS in Canada. Through the Initiative, Canada is strengthening
its efforts to
address this disease. By 2008/2009, funding under the Federal Initiative will be increased to $84.4
million annually. These funds will be used to help prevent new infections, slow disease progression
and reduce the social and economic impact of HIV/AIDS. Another key focus of the Initiative is to
reduce HIV/AIDS-related stigma and discrimination in an effort to eliminate the barriers to effective
prevention and increase access to care, treatment and support programs.
This year, HIV/AIDS has been a prominent issue on the public health agenda. Canada was the proud
host of the XVI International AIDS Conference which attracted approximately 23,000 delegates and
leaders involved in the fight against HIV/AIDS. This conference reminded us
that we cannot respond to this battle alone. By collaborating with diverse partners, both within
Canada and abroad, we will continue to find new ways to address HIV/AIDS and overcome this preventable
disease.
I would like to applaud the many Canadians who are part of the response to HIV/AIDS. I also encourage
all others to join in this response.
World AIDS Day also marks the beginning of Aboriginal AIDS Awareness Week. Please join me in showing
support for this worthy cause.
Tony Clement
Minister of Health
Government of Canada
|
