Mr. Chair, the member raises a very important question. It's been one that has been flagged in the media, and indeed by the Canadian Pharmacists Association, as was mentioned.
This has been brought to our attention by the Canadian Pharmacists Association and others. As we all know, drugs are manufactured by industry. There are a number of changes, at all times, taking place in the industry supply chain, whether they are on the wholesale side or the retail side. When this issue comes forward, we typically try to work with partners to understand the nature of the issue.
Currently we've been discussing this with a number of provinces. We've been in contact with provinces and territories which, as you know, are responsible for not only delivering hospital services but also significant drug programs. In addition, we are preparing a letter. I think the minister will be writing a letter to the major drug manufacturers to explore with them what they are experiencing.
We are following up with stakeholders. We don't at this time have a full understanding of what these drug shortages might be and where they might be occurring. We have anecdotal information. We're working with CADTH, the Canadian Agency for Drugs and Technologies in Health, to understand if we can get a better picture of the situation.
Those are the steps we're taking at the moment, Mr. Chair.