Thank you, Mr. Chair. Thank you to this panel for joining us today.
I think that all of us can agree that this is a very important discussion. I appreciate everyone's taking the time to join us.
My questions will be directed to Dr. Morgan.
Canadians have access to some of the best doctors and nurses, hospitals and treatments in the world, all of that through our publicly funded health care systems. This includes the incredible team at Southlake Regional Health Centre, where I had the pleasure to volunteer as a board member for many years and to gain some insight into the health care sector.
We've learned that some Canadians, particularly those with rare diseases, have difficulty affording the medications they need. Budget 2021 reaffirmed that the government will proceed with its announced plan to provide ongoing funding of $550 million for the program for high-cost drugs for rare diseases. How do you think this investment will help Canadians currently living with rare diseases now and in the future?