Yes, you're absolutely right about the inequity.
Oxfam will be releasing an update this week on the issue of deaths, which are much higher in low‑ and middle‑income countries than in countries such as Canada. We hear that some countries are less affected, but that some middle‑income countries, such as Brazil, India and South Africa, have been hit very hard. The lack of vaccines, lack of access to treatment and overcrowded hospitals have resulted in many more deaths, which aren't always recorded. There has been extensive research on the topic.
The current trend in Canada is to think that the pandemic is almost over and that everything is opening up. However, that isn't the case in other places. This inequity has been going on for a considerable amount of time, since the start of the pandemic. It's time to launch the discussion to ensure that patents are no longer protected by pharmaceutical companies. These companies have made ample profits. They're indeed investing in pharmaceutical development. However, these companies have made tremendous profits, which are well documented. People are dying simply because they don't have access to a vaccine and treatment. Many children are losing their mothers. Several countries have recorded the number of children who have lost their mothers because of COVID‑19. This is really an issue.
We also have the power to pursue this issue and to ensure that Canada plays a clearer role in the removal of patents. Canada hasn't yet taken a strong stance on this issue. It hasn't said yes and it hasn't said no. About 100 countries have said yes and others have said no to the removal. We would like to hear Canada speak out in favour of lifting patents. This is a matter of human rights, equity and justice. We know that women and children are hardest hit by COVID‑19. Women are even more affected as the primary caregivers.