Liberal Opposition Health and Community Services Critic and MHA for the District of Humber Valley, Dwight Ball, says government is taking a tardy approach to an important health protection initiative for young women by  delaying the implementation  of the HPV program.   

In  April, the Minister of Health and Community Services stated in the media that his department would soon be announcing a provincial initiative with respect to the new human papillomavirus vaccine (HPV) . 

Last week, Ontario and P.E.I announced that they would be moving forward to offer the free vaccine beginning in the fall.  In June, Nova Scotia became the first province to state that it would start the vaccination program this school year for girls in Grade 7. 

AGiven the fact that money has been made available for this program from the federal government since its 2007 budget and the minister indicated nearly four months ago that they were soon moving on this initiative, I find it perplexing that this program is still not announced,@ says Ball. AWhat is even more troubling is the fact that government has chosen to sit so long on a measure that involves protecting the health and safety of young women.@

The Liberal MHA points out that the vaccine, which offers protection for four strains of the virus causing up to 70 per cent of all cervical cancer,  is a great step forward for women=s health.  AIt is not a magic solution,  but like the annual pap tests,  it has proven to be very effective in helping to prevent the spread of the virus and in saving lives.  I find it unacceptable, especially given that this province has one of the highest rates of cervical cancer in the country, that this department would not make this program, together with a comprehensive cervical screening program, a top priority.

 AThe focus in health has to be on prevention and promotion. This proactive investment will not only help prevent cervical cancer and help women live healthier lives,  but it will also save the system money down the road.  When opportunities like this come our way,  we must take advantage and implement these programs as quickly as possible. Every day lost will mean some women may unnecessarily be diagnosed with cervical cancer down the road.@ 

Ball questions whether the ongoing crisis within the department of health may be distracting from ensuring  this vaccination program is part of a school-based free program come this September.  AThis is yet another example with this government where effective leadership would ensure such a vital health preventative program would be launched without delay.@