2005-07 February 25, 2005 For immediate release OTTAWA -- Health Minister Ujjal Dosanjh today recognized the coming into force of the Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (FCTC), the world's first international public health treaty, by confirming that Canada will continue to play a leadership role in its implementation. "I take great pride in saying that Canada's strong legislation and regulations are internationally recognized and respected, and in fact, have inspired many of the Articles of the Convention," said Minister Dosanjh. " We will continue with this tradition by advancing efforts globally to implement and manage the Convention." The FCTC, which comes into force on February 27, is designed to protect present and future generations from the health, social, environmental and economic consequences of consumption and exposure to tobacco smoke by strengthening tobacco control initiatives around the world. On November 26, 2004, Canada ratified the Convention. Canada is proud to have been among the first 40 ratifications necessary to bring the Convention into force. The FCTC is consistent with and advances Canada's domestic efforts, which are guided by the Federal Tobacco Control Strategy (FTCS). The Strategy includes a combination of tobacco control efforts in protection, prevention and cessation and harm reduction initiatives, including mass media campaign support for the Strategy's objectives. Tobacco use is the world's leading cause of preventable illness, disability, and premature death. Globally, 4.9 million people die each year from tobacco-related illnesses, including 45,000 Canadians. -30- Media Inquiries: Paul Duchesne Health Canada (613) 954-4807 Adèle Blanchard Office of the Minister of Health (613) 957-0200 Public Inquiries: (613) 957-2991
