Bill C-51

On April 8, 2008, the Harper Tories introduced Bill C-51 which would lead to more regulatory scrutiny of natural health products sold in Canada. The proposed legislation, if passed into law, will have a major impact on natural health in Canada and will restrict the choices Canadians currently have in regards to natural health products.

Many Canadians feel the bill will outlaw up to 60 per cent of natural health products currently sold in Canada, making many natural health products that have been sold in Canada for years unavailable for purchase and penalizing consumer who choose herbs or supplements for themselves and their children.

Critics say C-51 will allow Canadian authorities to raid businesses without warrants, seize bank accounts, confiscate property and give fines up to $5-million and jail terms of up to two years for selling herbs.

The bill would also allow the government to designate any natural health product a prescription drug, making it available by prescription only.

On April 8, 2008, Prime Minister Stephan Harper also introduced Bill C-52 in the House of Commons. According to the Natural Health Products Protection Association (NHPPA), Bill C-52 does not specifically target Natural Health Products. However, the NHPPA is concerned that Bill C52 sets a precedent where Canadians will accept the removal of their rights in the name of safety.

Also, if Bill C-51 is defeated but Bill C-52 passes, Bill C-52 could be made applicable to Natural Health Products by way of a regulatory amendment to Schedule I of Bill C-52.

As a response rallies against C-51 have been organized across the country to protest the passing of the proposed legislation.

Websites and online groups encourage readers to lobby their MPs to halt the progress of the bill.

Key Points of Bill-51

Neutraceuticals derived from foods would no longer be considered safe, and become subject to drug testing routines.

They would become subject to prescription requirements.

Health Canada inspectors would have the rights to enter a home or business without warrant, freezing bank accounts, and fine up to 5 million for disobeying orders of Health Canada inspectors.

Research at universities and other institutions would have to be approves by the Minister. This would restrict research and development of safe natural alternatives in favour of high risk drugs.

If you feel that Bill C-51 should be stopped, here are some suggestion to take action

Read Bill C-51.

Visit www.stopc51.com and sign the petition against Bill C-51.

For better understanding of C-51, read the legal analysis by lawyer Shawn Buckley.

Visit www.nhppa.org to read C-52.

Contact your Member of Parliament or schedule a visit. Demand for the bill to be killed.

Write Prime Minister Stephan Harper and share your thoughts.

Inform yourself about scheduled panel presentations, discussions and local rallies.