Author: The Record
Published May 26, 2024

Federal ministers, local MPs, and representatives from contraception- and diabetes-related local organizations gathered for a press conference to announce the new federal plan. Photo by William Crooks

By William Crooks

Local Journalism Initiative

Pablo Rodriguez, Minister of Transport and Quebec Lieutenant, Pascale St-Onge, Minister of Canadian Heritage and MP for Brome-Missisquoi, and Élisabeth Brière, Parliamentary Secretary for Mental Health and Addictions and MP for Sherbrooke, presented the government’s plan for the rollout of the first phase of national universal pharmacare May 24. This initiative aims to provide universal access to most prescription contraceptives and diabetes medication.

The announcement took place at Collective for Free Choice in Sherbrooke. Representatives from ConcertAction Femmes Estrie, the Collective for Free Choice, Elixir, the Cégep de Sherbrooke’s Youth Clinic, the University of Sherbrooke Health Clinic, and Diabète Estrie were also in attendance.

Speaking first, Brière thanked The Collective for Free Choice for welcoming the three MPs into their premises. She said the collective has been instrumental in informing, raising awareness, and advocating for the rights of women in Sherbrooke since 1989. The collective works tirelessly, she continued, not only to maintain abortion services but also to empower women regarding their sexual and reproductive health.

Brière said ensuring that every woman has the freedom to choose, access to contraceptives is essential, and that this freedom should not come with a price tag. Addressing the gathering of representatives, she said their support and commitment to this cause are crucial for advancing the government’s efforts and creating a society where health choices are freely accessible.

Speaking next, St-Onge said the MPs presence in Sherbrooke sends a clear and straightforward message: the Liberal government will always support women and their reproductive rights. The health of Canadians and Quebecers is a priority for our government, she continued. This has been reinforced by our engagement with communities across Quebec and Canada, leading to unprecedented federal support for the health system here in Quebec.

Historically, St-Onge said, Quebec has been a leader in pharmaceutical insurance since 1996, but the government recognizes that there is always room for improvement; Canadians should never have to choose between medication and putting food on the table. St-Onge said the public health system in Canada was founded on the promise that all Canadians would have access to necessary medical care, regardless of their location or income.

Speaking last, Rodriguez said the theme of the 2024 federal budget was equity, particularly intergenerational equity. This involves building housing faster, protecting tenants, and helping young people buy their first homes, he said. It also includes, he continued, combating climate change and creating a robust economy with good jobs for future generations. He said equity also extends to Canada’s childcare services, dental care, and school meal programs, which ensure that Canada’s children receive the support they need.

Rodriguez said that with the 2024 budget and our current bill on pharmaceutical insurance, the federal government will make prescription contraceptives free for all Canadian women. This includes birth control pills, IUDs, and emergency contraception. The government will also allocate $80 million to organisations working on sexual and reproductive health, supporting their work on the ground.

During question period, The Record asked about supporting those who choose to start families. Rodriguez responded that various programs support families, including child benefits and housing initiatives. These changes significantly impact financial stability, with some receiving up to $7,000 monthly to help support their families.

When asked about the cost of this new pharmacare measure, Rodriguez mentioned that $1.5 billion is being invested, and negotiations with provinces will ensure comprehensive coverage. Regarding the distribution of the $80 million for organisations supporting sexual and reproductive health, Rodriguez clarified that it would commence once the budget is passed. He urged all parties, including the Bloc and Conservatives, to support this initiative for the swift availability of funds.

Another question focused on the birth rate and support for families. Rodriguez reiterated the government’s various support programs, emphasising that today’s announcement prioritises women’s right to choose whether and when to start a family.

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