LANDMARK DECISION IS A VICTORY FOR CANADIAN INNOVATION, PATIENTS AND THE
KNOWLEDGE-BASED ECONOMYOTTAWA, July 21 /CNW Telbec/ - The following is a statement by Russell
Williams, President of Canada's Research-Based Pharmaceutical Companies (Rx&D)
reacting to the July 17th decision of the Federal Court of Canada upholding
the Government of Canada's 2006 improvements to the data regulations on
innovative medicines.
"The Federal Court upheld some important safeguards for Canada's
Intellectual Property Regime which are crucial to building a stronger,
internationally competitive life sciences industry in Canada. The Court agreed
with the Government of Canada that protecting the scientific research of
innovators for a period of eight years is not only fair but also ensures
compliance with Canada's international trade obligations.
"These regulations facilitate access by Canadian patients to these
medicines and vaccines and support the potential development of new life
saving and life improving medicines and vaccines in Canadian laboratories and
universities. We commend the Government of Canada for recognizing the
importance of these regulations to attract more jobs, research and investment
in the knowledge-based economy.
"The Canadian Government consulted widely with industry, health-care
professionals, and other levels of government before bringing in the amended
regulations in 2006 to address a longstanding problem. Previously, Canada was
in contravention of its international trade obligations because it had no
enforceable data protection. In contrast, Canada's major trading partners have
all implemented effective data protection, and some like the European Union
provide a longer period of data protection of 10 years.
"Constant litigation by generic drug makers does nothing to put Canada in
a better position to weather the economic storm that has threatened jobs in
Canada and throughout the world. Nor will it do anything to generate new ideas
that could lead to new treatments to prevent and fight disease.
"Our member companies continue to invest more than $1 billion annually in
research and development (R&D) in Canada. Since improvements were made to
Canada's intellectual property regime two decades ago, Rx&D member companies
have honoured their R&D to sales ratio commitment. As well, Canadians are
continuing to receive excellent value for their patented prescription
medicines which are on average 7 % below the international price median.
"In contrast, several studies have shown that Canadian generic drug
prices are among the highest in the world. Earlier this year, the federal
Competition Bureau found that Canadians and our health care system could save
up to $800 million a year "if generic drugs were sold in a more competitive
market."
"As the industry that develops new medicines and vaccines that improve
and save lives, we look forward to working with all our partners to ensure
that Canadians have access to the latest therapies that represent the best
value for patients and for our health care system."
About Rx&D
Rx&D is an association of leading research-based pharmaceutical companies
dedicated to improving the health of all Canadians through the discovery and
development of new medicines and vaccines. Our community represents 20,000 men
and women working for 50 member companies and invests more than $1 billion in
research and development each year to fuel Canada's knowledge-based economy.
Guided by our Code of Ethical Practices, our membership is committed to
working in partnership with governments, healthcare professionals and
stakeholders in a highly ethical manner.
For further information: François Lessard, Communications, Telephone:
(613) 236-0455, e-mail: flessard@canadapharma.org
