Madam Chair, I want to correct some of the statements that have been made this evening.
The government has been taking a leadership role. As a matter of fact, the MS Society announced seven new studies between Canada and the United States and four of those studies are actually taking place in Canada.
I am very hopeful that this therapy does work. However, there have been a lot of experts weighing in on the issue. I would like to quote from the Ontario Health Technology Advisory Committee, which stated:
The initial reports on intravascular interventions to remove blockages in cranial veins in MS patients are encouraging. There are however, several key areas for investigation.
As well, the MS societies in Canada and the U.S. have called the early findings surrounding CCSVI exciting and intriguing, but have said that more research is needed to firmly establish the link between blocked neck veins and MS symptoms. They have cautioned patients against seeking untested treatments, urging them not to discontinue conventional treatments for their disease.
Is the member suggesting that the government dismiss expert opinions such as those expressed by OHTAC and the MS Society?