Mr. Speaker, I wish to announce to the House and to all Canadians that October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month.
Breast cancer is a serious health problem for Canadian women. The federal government is concerned about the physical and psychological suffering caused by this disease.
In 1992, the federal government launched a $25 million initiative through Health Canada to combat breast cancer. In June 1998, the federal government renewed its commitment to the Canadian Breast Cancer Initiative by announcing stable, ongoing funding of $7 million annually.
Thanks to federal leadership and with the help of a national network of devoted partners, we are working to reduce the incidence and mortality of breast cancer and to improve the quality of life of women affected by it.
My congratulations to all those who are devoting their time and energy to this serious health problem.