MESSAGE

April 24, 2007

New Board of Directors of Assisted Human Reproduction Canada Endorses Guiding Principles

OTTAWA -- The new Board of Directors of Assisted Human Reproduction Canada (AHRC) has adopted a set of principles to guide its activities and operations. The principles of independence, transparency, evidence-informed decision-making, inclusiveness, knowledge-sharing and accountability were adopted at the Board's first meeting in Ottawa on March 26-27, 2007.

"The adoption of these principles demonstrates the Board's commitment to setting the bar high," said Dr. John Hamm, Chairperson of the board. "The environment of mutual respect that was quickly established around the table speaks volumes about the members' commitment to examining a wide range of perspectives to advance the Agency's agenda."

The meeting also focused on approving Bylaws, the budget and the Agency's Report on Plans and Priorities for 2007-2008.

At their next meeting in Vancouver on June 25-26, 2007, the Board of Directors will further develop their guiding principles into an operational context.

AHRC's objectives are to protect and promote the health and safety, human dignity and human rights of Canadians who use or are born of assisted human reproduction technologies, and to foster ethical principles in relation to assisted human reproduction and other related matters under the Assisted Human Reproduction Act. The Board is responsible for decisions related to licensing of assisted reproduction activities controlled under the Act and for administering and enforcing the Act and its regulations. The Board will act in good faith in accordance with the principles of the Act and the objectives of the Agency.

AHRC is separate from Health Canada, and will report to Parliament through the Minister of Health. Health Canada will retain responsibility for developing policy and regulations with respect to assisted human reproduction

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Media Enquiries:
Kate McGregor
Assisted Human Reproduction Canada
(613) 954-1574