NEWS RELEASE

Ref: 850-070/11

39th Annual Premiers' Conference
Saskatoon, Saskatchewan - August 5-7, 1998

HEPATITIS C

SASKATOON, August 6, 1998 --

Premiers and Territorial Leaders discussed the issue of compensation to victims of Hepatitis C infected through the Canadian blood system.

Premiers acknowledged the tragic circumstances and events which have resulted in people of all ages, from all walks of life, and from across this country being infected with Hepatitis C.

Premiers and Territorial Leaders asked Premier Romanow as Chair of the Premiers to report to the Prime Minister on their discussion, and to ask the Prime Minister to give direction to the federal Health Minister to continue the meetings of federal- provincial/territorial Health Ministers aimed at seeking a fair, appropriate and timely resolution to this issue.

Premiers requested that federal-provincial/territorial Health Ministers table a report as soon as possible, and no later than mid-September, containing appropriate recommendations.

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Canadian Intergovernmental Conference Secretariat (CICS)

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