SASKATCHEWAN PLEASED BY FRAMEWORK'S RATIFICATION

Health Minister John Nilson today congratulated the Government of Canada and Federal Health Minister Ujjal Dosanjh for officially ratifying the Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (FCTC).

"Saskatchewan was the second jurisdiction in Canada after the Northwest Territories to support ratification of the FCTC," Nilson said. "We are proud in this province to be on the forefront of tobacco control. With The Tobacco Control Act of 2001, we became the first jurisdiction in North America to proclaim a law that bans the promotion and display of tobacco products in retail stores where young people have access. We have five municipalities that have passed smoke-free bylaws. In a few weeks, on January 1st, our Tobacco Control Amendment Act will go further by prohibiting smoking in all enclosed public places such as restaurants, bars, bingo halls, casinos, bowling alleys, taxis, and private clubs. Together, we are helping to protect the health of Saskatchewan people, and to prevent tobacco-related disease."

The FCTC is an international initiative that will ground tobacco control efforts in a legal framework of norms and standards. It will also assist countries in addressing issues such as tobacco advertising and smuggling, and will create a forum for sharing knowledge and expertise in the advancement of tobacco control measures.

Negotiations on the FCTC began in October 2000. It was presented to the World Health Assembly in May 2003 for adoption and then opened for signature and ratification. Forty countries are required to ratify the convention before it will come into force. To date, 37 have ratified it. Canada's ability to ratify the FCTC required the formal support of all provinces and territories; this has been achieved, resulting in Canada's official ratification of the FCTC on November 26th, 2004.

"Our collective action on tobacco control at every level - international, national, provincial and municipal - is key to addressing the serious public health consequences of a very addictive and hazardous product," Nilson said. "Canada's support of the FCTC is a significant step toward ensuring a healthier, smoke-free society for all."

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For More Information, Contact:

Pete Paczko Health Regina Phone: (306) 787-4083