QUESTION PERIOD — Ministry of Health

Minister, earlier in your answer, you spoke about the mental health concerns you have for young men. One of the contributing factors is sports betting and online sports betting ads.

As you know, Mental Health Research Canada’s November 2025 report indicated the increasing concern about suicide in young men and people who are problem gamblers.

As you know, minister, Belgium and Italy have incorporated a total ban on sports betting ads online and on TV, radio, and billboards and sports betting companies sponsoring athletic events and teams. As Minister of Health, will you be recommending a similar course of action to the government?

Thank you, senator, for your question.

This is why I’m also doing the consultation. You need to know that the gambling part — online gambling and everything else — is part of the consultation. This morning, I met with some organizations that work with men who were specifically talking about this.

When we wrap up all the consultations, one of my hopes is to have some recommendations.

In terms of what I’m doing now in my portfolio, I am much more focused on the specific hot topics. I am asking my department to look around the world: What has been done in like-minded countries? Who is going faster than we are? What achievements do they have? We don’t need to do the same thing, but maybe we can start there.

In the case of Belgium, which you just mentioned, they are looking into it, so we will come with some recommendations.

You’re the Minister of Health. You have the opportunity to protect Canadians, particularly young men, from committing suicide because they’re addicted to gambling. There are all kinds of research. I don’t know why you’re waiting. We currently ban cigarette ads because they’re harmful to Canadians’ health. Why will you not ban sports betting ads tomorrow for the very same reason?

Thank you, senator.

Yes, we see the suicide rate, but there are multiple factors. This is one of them for sure, but there are multiple factors. I am doing consultations right now, and we will come with more later.

Excuse me. I have to go vote again.