QUESTION PERIOD — Innovation, Science and Economic Development
COVID-19 Vaccine Patents
May 6, 2021
I would like some clarification on this matter.
As you know, overcoming this virus will take a massive, worldwide vaccination effort, and not only in rich countries. Yesterday, the Biden administration announced that the United States was now supportive of temporarily suspending COVID-19 vaccine patents to allow new suppliers to manufacture more doses and address the serious shortage of vaccines. Strangely enough, Canada did not support this proposal. Why is that?
Thank you for the question, senator.
Regarding the issue you described, we have been in discussions with our allies and the companies that make the vaccines for some time now. In that regard, President Biden’s announcement was somewhat unexpected. In other words, we heard the news at the same time as everyone else. That being said, as Minister Gould said, and I will quote her in English, with your permission:
I welcome this move from the United States. It’s a really important step . . . . We have been open to it. We have been constructive in trying to find solutions . . . .
Honourable colleagues, that conversation is under way and it will continue.
