News Release
1997-56
October 14, 1997
Health Ministers name Blood System Transition Bureau; Bernard J. Doyle appointed Director of Transition
Ottawa -- Health Minister Allan Rock and Saskatchewan Minister of Health Clay Serby, on behalf of participating Federal, Provincial and Territorial Health Ministers, today announced the membership of the Transition Bureau that will manage all aspects of transition to a new blood system.
Ministers also announced that Bernard J. Doyle, of Ottawa, has been appointed Director of Transition. The Director will report to the Transition Bureau.
In making the announcement, the Ministers reaffirmed the commitment of governments to establish the new national blood authority responsible for Canadian blood services as soon as possible, and to have the new blood system in operation by April, 1998, at the earliest, and no later than September, 1998.
"All those involved agree that a smooth transition to the new Canadian blood services is absolutely essential," said Minister Rock. "The Bureau we have named today will take on the task of managing all aspects, and be responsible for all measures required to make the new blood system operational."
Minister Serby said that Mr. Doyle, the Director appointed to manage day-to-day transition activities, is an experienced, senior executive, highly qualified to take on this important job.
"Mr. Doyle will begin work immediately on planning and managing all transition activities," said Minister Serby.
The Transition Bureau members were named by provincial, territorial and federal governments. One of the members is a consumer representative.
Throughout transition, the Canadian Red Cross Society will continue to operate the blood supply system, including collecting blood from volunteer donors at its blood donor clinics and mobile operations.
The Ministers emphasized that it is very important for blood donors to continue to give the gift of blood throughout this time of change. Noting that Red Cross donor clinics are open and ready to receive donations, Ministers urged Canadians who are donors to continue to give, and those who have never donated, to please consider doing so.
An essential aspect of transition is negotiating with the Red Cross regarding its blood related assets, including blood services employees. Mr. John Page, of Toronto, is representing governments in discussions with the Red Cross.
In guiding Mr. Page, Ministers have stressed the need for sensitivity to all the issues involved, particularly with respect to current Red Cross blood services employees and volunteers.
Minister Rock confirmed that the federal government, as the regulator of blood safety, will not be a member of the new blood authority, but it will continue to be involved in the process of transition.
Minister Rock also said that governments look forward to receiving the final report of the Commission of Inquiry on the Blood System in Canada.
"Justice Krever's advice and final recommendations will be given careful consideration as plans for the new blood system are being developed and implemented," he said. "Canadians should be assured that all partners in the system are doing their utmost to benefit from the work of the Commission and that we learn lessons from the past. Justice Krever's recommendations will no doubt be a very important factor in ensuring that blood and blood products are as safe and effective as they can be."
For its part, Quebec maintains its aim of integrating the main activities relating to the blood programme into its health and social services network. If Quebec decides to join the new system as a member, it will be offered three seats on the Transition Bureau.
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Media Inquiries:
Stephen Jeffery
Health Canada
957-2978
Warren Bickford
Saskatchewan Health
(306) 787- 8433
Public Inquiries:
(613) 957-2991
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