"A national meeting of provincial, federal and territorial Ministers of Health to discuss the national blood supply program is a welcome idea," says Health and Social Services Minister Walter McEwen.
"Canada has one of the safest blood supplies in the world," Mr. McEwen said. "However, any effort to bolster public confidence should be supported."
On April 1, 1996, federal Health Minister David Dingwall proposed a national meeting.
In particular, Mr. McEwen said he is hoping the meeting will promote a constructive dialogue on issues related to the national blood supply.
While the meeting may not produce all the answers, Mr. McEwen said it is reasonable to expect a general consensus on the future direction of the national blood supply.
"I am hoping for a productive session when we meet," Mr. McEwen said. "A great deal of work has been done over the last few years to promote safety in the national blood supply, and this meeting may bring further focus to our efforts."
The meeting has been scheduled for April 24-25.