There are many interesting subjects, but in my estimation, the committee should give priority consideration to those areas that come under federal jurisdiction.
Earlier, I mentioned the health of aboriginal peoples. This is an area under federal responsibility. I don't believe the Standing Committee on Health has previously examined this subject. We could make it a priority of ours, along with Internet drug sales. The subject-matter is interesting because we'd also be looking at safeguarding our drug stocks. How widespread is the phenomenon? We're protected in Quebec, but to what extent exactly?
The committee should give priority consideration to matters under federal jurisdiction, and should refrain from infringing upon provincial areas of jurisdiction. Otherwise, we'll never make any headway.
Consider the range of illnesses. Earlier, mention was made of Type 1 juvenile diabetes. I know that this illness is cause for serious concern, but the committee could also discuss degenerative diseases, research in general and the funding of various research institutes.
We need to identify our priorities. It would be difficult to focus on each and every disease. Many people are battling debilitating, incurable diseases.
That's my general opinion. However, I don't think we should overlook the health of aboriginal peoples.