Thank you.
Our government recognizes the burden neurological conditions place on individuals, families, and caregivers. This will, I think, increase as our population ages.
Our government has committed $15 million to conduct a four-year study of persons with neurological conditions. The study will fill gaps in information about the state of neurological conditions among Canadians. It will also increase our understanding of the number of people affected by neurological conditions; the impact on individuals, their families, and their caregivers; the health services used and required; and the factors that increase the risk of developing neurological conditions.
As well, a conference will be held at the conclusion of this study to provide information for developing policies and programs to improve the lives of those individuals living with neurological conditions.
Through the Canadian Institutes of Health Research our government has also invested $88 million in neurological research. Canada is taking a leadership role in working with other countries to accelerate research on Alzheimer's prevention and on the development of new therapies to address the public health challenges. In fact, we have signed international memoranda of understanding with France, Germany, and the United Kingdom on Alzheimer's research. They all recognize, as well, that they are facing the same challenges we are. But Canada was able to pull those important partners together to accelerate our research in that area.
Our government has also invested $30 million over five years, with the support of the Rick Hansen Foundation, to support the programs and operations of the related Rick Hansen Institute.