QUESTION PERIOD — Health
Multiple Sclerosis Research
May 6, 2026
Senator Moreau, Canada has one of the highest prevalence rates of multiple sclerosis, or MS, in the world, striking women and young adults in dramatically disproportionate numbers. There is good news: Scientific evidence shows the prevention of MS is within reach. With the discovery that the Epstein-Barr virus is a trigger for MS, prevention is now a realistic goal. According to MS Canada, a federal investment of $15 million would support vital prevention-focused research into improving the health of Canadians, saving lives and reducing costly impacts on our health care system, as well as loss of productivity.
Senator Moreau, with MS estimated to cost Canada $4 billion annually, will the government commit to investing $15 million in MS research? This will be quite a return on investment.
Thank you for your question.
The government understands the significant impacts that multiple sclerosis has on individuals and families in Canada. While I cannot provide future funding projects for the government, I can tell you that the government has been proudly supporting new MS research through the Canadian Institutes of Health Research with more than $55 million in research investments over the last five years. This funding helped to build knowledge regarding the underlying causes and mechanisms of MS, to explore new avenues for prevention and treatment and to develop interventions to improve the well-being and quality of life for Canadians living with MS.
There is still much work to be done to improve our understanding of MS. The government is committed to helping pave the way for better health outcomes for people living with MS and, hopefully, one day eliminating the disease.
Thank you, Senator Moreau. That funding is important, but it is not sufficient; it’s not targeted.
Many Canadians with MS continue to be denied the Disability Tax Credit due to strict core eligibility rules that exclude many people with MS. Senator Moreau, will the government commit to modernizing the Disability Tax Credit eligibility so that episodic disabilities like MS are assessed fairly, enabling equitable access to that credit and to the Canada Disability Benefit?
Yes, the government is committed to improving access to the Disability Tax Credit for persons with disabilities and their families. The Spring Economic Update 2026 proposed to streamline the application process for individuals with formal diagnosis of certain long-lasting medical conditions, like MS, and recognize provincial or territorial public guardians and trustees as being qualified to certify for the Disability Tax Credit. These changes are expected to provide $345 million over six years, and $86 million —
Thank you, Senator Moreau.
