Thank you, Madam Chair.
As for resources, that is not a concern at this time. We have to do what we have to do.
In terms of the amount of information going around, you are absolutely right: there is a lot. A lot is being said, and we cannot systematically respond to every bit of information, blog or comment out there. You were right when you said that we need a more comprehensive communications strategy to try to communicate with all Canadians across the board. But we also need to develop more targeted strategies for certain at-risk groups. That is what we are doing, and we are not doing it alone, as the federal government. As you know, we are working with the provinces and territories, which, for a long time now, have been committed to working with us on a national communications strategy through a number of committees.
As for vaccines specifically, we have clinical trial research, information on the risks and benefits, and contraindications. Health Canada will clearly identify and communicate that information. We are also developing several communication products, not only for the Web site, but also for a multimedia campaign that we will be launching very soon. In the coming weeks, we will launch the next phase of the marketing campaign, among other things; it is a document approximately 20 pages long describing the symptoms of the H1N1 virus and the steps to take in looking after yourself and loved ones. We will also talk a little bit about the vaccine and prepare the public for the third phase, which is relevant and detailed information on the vaccines. We are talking about a risk communications strategy here. In other words, not a public relations campaign. We are not trying to sell the public on anything; we must provide fair and appropriate information and address the risks and benefits. Ultimately, we are leaving it up to Canadians to make an informed decision about their own health, and the health of their children and loved ones.
Those who object to the vaccine are not necessarily basing their opinions on science. Obviously, we are going to try to present information that is science-based, but we will still give people the chance to make their own choice. We will be using a number of communication measures to achieve this goal. We will use all the tools available to us. As I said before, this campaign will have several phases.