I call this meeting to order.
Welcome to meeting number 133 of the House of Commons Standing Committee on Health.
Before we begin, I would ask everyone in the room to have a look at the guidelines on this card. The measures are in place to help prevent audio and feedback incidents, and to protect the health and safety of all participants, including the interpreters. Thanks for your co-operation on that.
In accordance with our routine motion, I'm informing the committee that all remote participants have had the required connection tests administered. We're having a challenge with Mr. May, but it's not going to further delay the start of the meeting. I expect that we'll get along just fine. I just want you to know that's done.
Before we begin, I would like to remind members that the clause-by-clause consideration of Bill C-277, on brain injuries, is this Thursday. The deadline to submit amendments is in another 51 minutes. At noon today, the amendment package will be circulated as soon as possible after the deadline passes.
Pursuant to Standing Order 108(2) and the motion adopted on November 8, 2023, the committee is resuming its study of the opioid epidemic and toxic drug crisis in Canada.
I'd like to welcome our panel of witnesses. We have with us today Jean-Sébastien Fallu, associate professor, Université de Montréal, appearing online.
We have Masha Krupp in the room. She is a mother who has lost her daughter to a methadone overdose, and whose son has an opioid addiction.
From the City of Toronto, we have Dr. Eileen de Villa, the medical officer of health.
Thank you all for being with us today. As has been explained to you, you will have up to five minutes for your opening statement.
I now give the floor to Jean‑Sébastien Fallu, who is appearing by video conference.