Mr. Chair, I thank the minister for her insight into the role that our public health officer will to play. I think all parliamentarians share a collective vision of wellness for all Canadians.
Could the Minister of Health perhaps elaborate on the significant and historic deal we signed in September 2004 with the federal government working in significant partnership with all the provinces and highlight or outline the direction the health of our nation will take for the next 10 years?
The substantial issue that was in the health care accord, which was signed at the first ministers meeting, was the reduction in waiting times that many Canadians experience across the country. It is nice to see that our federal government has finally taken a great initiative to reduce that waiting time.
Could the minister perhaps elaborate on the waiting time strategy contained in the health care accord that was signed in September 2004?