News Release
2000-81
August 10, 2000
Minister Rock announces launch of public involvement process on xenotransplantation
OTTAWA - Health Minister Allan Rock today announced that Health Canada will fund the Canadian Public Health Association (CPHA) to take on the responsibilities of forming a  Public Advisory Group and conducting consultations across Canada on the issue of xenotransplantation.
This is a step towards implementing the recommendations of the Standing Committee on Health, in their 1999 report, Organ and Tissue Donation and Transplantation: A Canadian Approach. The key role of the Public Advisory Group will be to develop recommendations on xenotransplantation, based on input from Canadians.
Xenotransplantation, is the use of live, non-human animal cells, tissues and organs in humans. Xenotransplants, which are regulated by Health Canada under the requirements of the Food and Drugs Act, could potentially provide an alternative source of organs and tissues for patients in Canada.
"Health Canada is leading national discussions on the potential benefits and risks of xenotransplantation and its role in human medicine," said Minister Rock. "The views of Canadians will help to guide the future development of government policy on Xenotransplantation in Canada."
Health Canada has also made a strong commitment to develop and publish national standards on the safety of blood, organs, tissues and xenotransplants. The strategy to consult the public on xenotransplantation further represents Health Canada's commitment to a comprehensive, effective approach towards a national strategy for organ and tissue donation and transplantation - one that includes public information, dialogue, national standards and best practices.
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Media inquiries:
Catherine Lappe
Office of Allan Rock
(613) 957-0200
Tara Madigan
Health Canada
(613) 946-4250
Public inquiries:
(613) 957-2991
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