Canadians should be deeply concerned that fewer health care professionals will be standing on guard in the years following the 2012 budget.
These Canadians provide services that have a direct impact on the safety of Canadians. Over 840 jobs have been cut at Health Canada: including up to 150 scientists, and 263 positions in the First Nations & Inuit Health Branch.
There will be cuts to critical resources such as the Canadian Institutes of Health Research and the Hazardous Materials Information Review Commission.
Adding to the concern is the likelihood these federal budget cuts will require more self-regulation by health related industries as opposed to proper professional oversight by organizations like the Patented Medicine Prices Review Board.
Next year Health Canada will be working with $72 million fewer dollars and 840 fewer staff — is this really the best way to keep our country healthy and safe?
