May 20, 2008

For the first time in Canada, a Citizens’ Council is being created to help inform Ontario’s prescription drug funding policy.

With new drugs constantly coming to market and limited public funds available, drug funding decisions have become increasingly complex. The new Citizens’ Council will provide a real voice to Ontarians by engaging them in an open process that will help to shape the future direction of Ontario’s drug policy.

The McGuinty government is encouraging Ontarians from all backgrounds and corners of the province to apply for the Ontario Citizens’ Council.  Recruitment for the Ontario Citizens’ Council begins today and ends on June 30, 2008.  

Composed of 25 individuals representing a cross-section of ages, cultures and regions of the province, the Citizens’ Council will meet twice annually to reflect upon pressing matters of provincial drug policy and to give advice to the government. Following each meeting, the Council will provide a report to the Minister of Health and Long-Term Care, and to the Executive Officer of the Ontario Public Drug Programs.

"Good governance includes opening up processes to the everyday citizen's point of view,” said George Smitherman, Deputy Premier and Minister of Health and Long-Term Care. “This council reflects our government’s commitment to ensure the public’s opinions and values are heard.”

“Hearing from Ontarians will help inform future decisions in this vital area of public policy,” said Helen Stevenson, Assistant Deputy Minister and Executive Officer of the Ontario Public Drug Programs.

• The Council is modeled after the National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence (NICE) Citizens Council in the United Kingdom. This council has been highly successful in bringing the views and opinions of the general public forward on national health issues since 2002.
• All applications must be submitted by 5pm, June 30, 2008 to be eligible.
• Council members will serve a three-year term, with one-third stepping down every year. The initial Council members will be appointed for terms of two, three, or four years to allow for staggered replacement.

For more information on eligibility and how to apply for the Citizens’ Council, visit the Ontario Citizens’ Council.

Backgrounder :

• Citizens’ Council

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