As far as I'm concerned, our first order of business should be to examine the Tobacco Reduction Strategy. We should explore the whole question of mild cigarettes, which are not regulated in any way, to disclose their real impact on people's heath.
The Non-Smokers' Rights Association released a statement criticizing the government for not moving quickly enough to pass regulations. Other countries have been much quicker to act on this matter. Some adopted anti-smoking legislation much later than Canada, but were much quicker to bring in regulations.
The Association is also concerned about the fact that initially, $480 million were allocated over five years to combat tobacco use and smuggling, but year after year, the funding of such initiatives has been slashed. Another concern is the whole question of smoking cessation advertising campaigns. Ever since the sponsorship debacle, the Prime Minister's Office has been handling all advertising strategies. That means that delays are encountered. The Association has been quite vocal about these delays and Health Canada officials could be called before the committee to explain why it has taken them so long to produce anti-smoking regulations. Efforts thus far have been rather meak.
This is a timely subject. As my colleague Hedy Fry was saying, if this is a provincial matter, then each province has likely already come up with its very own scenario. Quebec has developed a plan. Therefore, negotiations with the provinces are in order. Perhaps we could focus on this matter a little later.