I call this meeting to order.
Welcome to meeting number 104 of the House of Commons Standing Committee on Health. Today’s meeting is taking place in a hybrid format, pursuant to the Standing Orders.
I would like to make a few comments for the benefit of members. Please wait until I recognize you by name before speaking. For those participating by video conference, click on the microphone icon to activate your mic, and please mute yourself when you are not speaking. For interpretation for those on Zoom, you have the choice, at the bottom of your screen, of floor, English or French. For those in the room, you can use the earpiece and select the desired channel. As a reminder, all comments should be addressed through the chair. Additionally, taking screenshots or photos of your screen is not permitted.
In accordance with our routine motion, I am informing the committee that all remote participants have completed the required connection tests in advance of the meeting.
Today's meeting is on the opioid epidemic and toxic drug crisis in Canada. Pursuant to Standing Order 108(2) and the motion adopted on November 8, 2023, the committee is resuming this study.
I would like to welcome our first panel of witnesses. Appearing as an individual, we have Dr. Rob Tanguay, addiction psychiatrist, by video conference. Representing the Association des intervenants en dépendance du Québec, we have Louis Letellier de St-Just, chairman of the board. Representing the London InterCommunity Health Centre, we have Dr. Andrea Sereda, lead physician, safer opioid supply program. Representing Pain BC, we have Maria Hudspith, executive director, by video conference.
Thank you for taking the time to appear today. You will each have up to five minutes for an opening statement. I will hold this sign up when you have one minute left. We're looking for good order and discipline here today.
That being said, Dr. Tanguay, you have the floor for five minutes, please.