October 24, 2007
For immediate distribution

News Release

Health Minister Clement Appoints Brian Peckford to head Diabetes Policy Review Expert Panel

Ottawa – The Honourable Tony Clement, Minister of Health, today announced the appointment of Brian Peckford, former Premier of Newfoundland, as Chair of the Diabetes Policy Review Expert Panel.

“Diabetes, and complications which can arise from it, are serious issues, especially since more and more Canadians are being diagnosed with this disease. That is why the Government of Canada is committed to undertaking this policy review,” said Minister Clement. “This appointment will allow us to ensure our investments in the Canadian Diabetes Strategy are making a real difference in the lives of Canadians.”

Brian Peckford was first elected to the Newfoundland and Labrador House of Assembly in March 1972, and after serving as a special assistant to the Premier Frank Moores, he was appointed as Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing in 1974, and then Minister of Mines and Energy in 1976. Mr. Peckford served as Premier of Newfoundland from 1979 to 1989.

In addition to being recognized for his outstanding contributions by the Newfoundland Ocean Industries Association in 2000, Mr. Peckford was awarded an Honourary Doctor of Laws Degree by Memorial University of Newfoundland in 1986. Mr. Peckford also received the Vanier Award as an outstanding young Canadian in 1980.

 “I am pleased to have been appointed as the Chair of the newly formed Diabetes Policy Review Expert Panel,” said Mr. Peckford. “I look forward to working with the various diabetes stakeholders to ensure the Canadian Diabetes Strategy meets the ongoing needs of Canadians.” 

The Diabetes Policy Review Expert Panel will review the Canadian Diabetes Strategy to ensure the federal annual investment of $18 million delivers results for Canadians. In doing so, it will help ensure that government policies, programs and services meet the needs of Canadians living with diabetes and those at risk of developing the disease.

The five-member Expert Panel will be made up of non-governmental organizations that focus on diabetes and a provincial/territorial government representative.

Diabetes is a leading cause of death in Canada and affects approximately 2 million Canadians. Every year, more than 60,000 new cases of diabetes are diagnosed and many adults with diabetes are unaware that they have the condition. Physical inactivity and unhealthy eating habits leading to obesity play a major role in the onset and progression of type 2 diabetes.

For more information on the Canadian Diabetes Strategy, visit www.diabetes.gc.ca

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Media Inquiries:

Laryssa Waler
Office of the Honourable Tony Clement
Minister of Health
(613) 957-0200

Alain Desroches
Public Health Agency of Canada
(613) 948-7970