Mr. Speaker, since 2007, government and health care providers have developed contingency measures to minimize the impact on patients. This includes using alternative isotopes, such as thallium.
I have engaged with my provincial and territorial counterparts as well as the United States and medical experts in this area. My colleague, the Minister of Natural Resources, has been working with the international community.
Health Canada has provided advance warning and regular updates to the provinces and territories. We have worked with the isotope experts to develop medical guidance on dealing with the shortage, including using medical isotope alternatives.