Mr. Chair, thanks to our efforts over the years, Canada has one of the safest blood systems in the world, and it is supported by evidence-based policy. That is why earlier this year we approved the Canadian Blood Services and Héma-Québec's request to reduce the deferral period for donation to three months for men who have had sex with other men. This is a significant step toward eliminating the deferral period and moving to a behaviour-based model.
On May 19th, 2020. See this statement in context.