News Release

August 18, 2003

McLellan signals federal commitment to strengthened public health system

Winnipeg - Speaking at the Canadian Medical Association's 136th Annual Meeting, Anne McLellan, Minister of Health outlined the Government of Canada's commitment to strengthening the public health system to deal more effectively with infectious and non-infectious diseases.

The Minister outlined four areas in which changes are needed:

• the creation of a new Canadian Public Health Care Centre;
• increased capacity including, training and research;
• better defining roles and responsibilities; and,
• modernizing laws.

" Canadians need and deserve to know that when we face serious public health challenges, we will be well prepared," said Minister McLellan. "The Government of Canada will respond, not simply with words, but with concrete, timely action".

Minister McLellan also stressed that while awaiting the Naylor Committee's report, she will continue to work with her provincial and territorial counterparts and public health providers to promote, protect and restore the health of Canadians.

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Transcript of the Minister's address to the Canadian Medical Association will be available by the end of today at:
www.hc-sc.gc.ca/ahc-asc/minist/health-sante/speeches-discours/2003_e.html

Full French translation will follow as soon as possible at:
http://www.hc-sc.gc.ca/ahc-asc/minist/health-sante/speeches-discours/2003_f.html

Farah Mohamed
Director of Communications to the
Honourable Anne McLellan,
Minister of Health
(613) 957-0200

Media enquiries:
Health Canada
Media Relations
(613) 957-2983