Debates of Oct. 19th, 2005

Trade Compensation Act

[Nicole Demers, Bloc, Laval, QC]

Mr. Speaker, I acknowledge the good faith of my colleague, but the companies asked for studies have not provided any long term ones.

Women are not properly informed; they do not have all the information they require. When they get these implants, it may not be a matter of serious or dangerous illness, but that will likely be the case in ten years. Then we will see what happens.

I find it unfortunate that this problem is being discussed and that we have no assurance that silicone-gel breast implants are definitely harmless to the women of Quebec and Canada who will have to make decisions relating to their appearance, or their health, if it is a matter of breast reconstruction. Unfortunately, some 18% of women who have implant surgery are having breast reconstruction. On the other hand, about 80% do so solely for cosmetic purposes. I find that most unfortunate.

I would like to ask my colleague whether he can assure me that the members of the expert committee consulted by Health Canada will be excluded from sitting on it again if they have a conflict of interest. Only last week, one of them wrote an article in praise of silicone-gel implants. I feel it is an appalling conflict of interest for someone to be continuing to work for these companies while a consultant to Health Canada—

[Robert Thibault, Liberal, West Nova, NS]

Mr. Speaker, I thank the hon. member for her comments.

I want her to know that we share her concerns about the use of any device or product such as breast implants. We share her concerns about their possible effects on health in the short and long terms, if they are improperly used.

That is why the minister was absolutely proactive in ensuring that the review for certifying these products, which require permits in Canada, is completely transparent. In other countries, experts like our departmental ones who assess every drug and device, have approved these products, but without the necessary transparency to allow people to understand their full scope.

The minister went a little further. He asked a panel of experts to conduct a public study. He then gave the public the opportunity to give its opinion on these issues. This panel will give the minister the answers to specific questions.

However, the decision will not be made by the panel; it remains the responsibility of the minister and must be based on the safety and effectiveness of these products. Then a decision will be made based on the responses to these questions.

[The Deputy Speaker]

The motion to adjourn the House is now deemed to have been adopted. Accordingly, the House stands adjourned until tomorrow at 10 a.m. pursuant to Standing Order 24(1).

(The House adjourned at 7:04 p.m.)