Our Statement Regarding Federal Pharmacare Agreement with British Columbia

Amidst unprecedented economic uncertainty, when we should be focusing on smart investments, the government has concluded yet another costly and unnecessary pharmacare agreement.

This agreement with British Columbia could restrict the range of necessary medications by forcing everyone, even those who already have employer-provided drug coverage, onto a government plan. In all likelihood, this plan will cover only a fraction of what British Columbians currently access through their employer insurance plans. 

National pharmacare isn’t necessary. Ottawa can work with provinces to fill the small gaps in drug coverage for a fraction of the cost, while maintaining the beneficial role played by private insurers. Not only would this improve access to medications, but it would also be more fiscally responsible. 

• Liam MacDonald, Director of Policy and Government Relations, Canadian Chamber of Commerce

About the Canadian Chamber of Commerce — The Future of Business Success 

The Canadian Chamber of Commerce is Canada’s largest and most activated business network — representing over 400 chambers of commerce and boards of trade and more than 200,000 business of all sizes, from all sectors of the economy and from every part of the country — working to create the conditions for our collective success. The Canadian Chamber of Commerce is the undisputed champion and catalyst for the future of business success. From working with government on economy-friendly policy to providing services that inform commerce and enable trade, we give each of our members more of what they need to succeed: insight into markets, competitors and trends, influence over the decisions and policies that drive business success, and impact on business and economic performance.   

Media Contact

Shane Mackenzie
Vice President, Media and Stakeholder Communications
613.302.7683
smackenzie@chamber.ca