An Open Letter to:

Hon. Tony Valeri, M.P.
Leader of the Government in the House of Commons
14 Metcalfe Street, 4th Floor
Ottawa, ON K1A 0A3

Ms. Libby Davies, M.P.
House Leader of the New Democratic Party
House of Commons
Ottawa, ON K1A 0A6

Mr. Jay Hill, M.P.
House Leader of the Conservative Party
House of Commons
Ottawa, ON K1A 0A6

Mr. Michel Gauthier, M.P.
House Leader of the Bloc Québécois
Ottawa, ON K1A 0A6

Re: The entry into force of Bill C-29 (An act to amend the Patent Act) the Jean Chrétien Pledge to Africa Act

Dear Sirs and Madam:

World Vision Canada welcomes the entry into force of Canada’s groundbreaking legislation aimed at making essential medicines more accessible to people living in poverty. We appreciate the efforts that each of you has made, as House Leaders of your respective parties, to ensure the timely passing of Bill C-29.

The Jean Chrétien Pledge to Africa Act , along with its accompanying regulations, is an important contribution towards improving the quality of life for millions around the world suffering from HIV/AIDS, tuberculosis, malaria, and many other life threatening illnesses. World Vision, along with millions around the world in desperate need of these medicines, has been eagerly awaiting the final passing of this legislation, to enable the export of generic medicines to developing countries that lack the capacity to produce them on their own.

The legislation is not without its flaws, so World Vision Canada will be watching closely to ensure that the Canadian government does its part, by cooperating with developing countries, generic companies, and non-governmental organizations to ensure that these medicines are delivered quickly to those who need them most. We hope that we can rely on your continued commitment to ensure that the Jean Chrétien Pledge to Africa Act achieves its intended purpose of making essential medicines more accessible to people living in poverty around the world.

Sincerely,

Dave Toycen
President

CC:
Right Hon. Paul Martin, Prime Minister
Hon. Pierre Pettigrew, Minister of Foreign Affairs
Hon. Jim Peterson, Minister of International Trade
Hon. Aileen Carroll, Minister of International Cooperation
Hon. Ujjal Dosanjh, Minister of Health