The federal Liberal government and the NDP have reached a pivotal agreement on pharmacare, marking a significant milestone in their collaboration under the confidence-and-supply agreement that has upheld the government’s authority for the past two years.
NDP Leader Jagmeet Singh disclosed the outcome of extensive negotiations, unveiling draft legislation that delineates the framework for a national pharmacare program. This legislation also includes immediate provisions for expanded coverage encompassing contraception and diabetes treatment.
“We’ve achieved something of immense importance, truly historic for Canadians. We’re incredibly enthusiastic about this,” remarked Singh.
Singh highlighted that the coverage will be universally accessible, akin to systems implemented in provinces such as British Columbia, particularly for contraceptives. He emphasized coverage for a broad range of contraceptives, including intrauterine devices, prescription contraceptives, and emergency contraception.
Moreover, Singh stated that a comprehensive array of insulin and other medications will be covered for individuals managing diabetes.
The confidence-and-supply agreement, inked in March 2022, obligated the Liberal government to pass legislation, known as the Canada Pharmacare Act, by the end of 2023, in exchange for NDP support on crucial votes in the House of Commons. However, the deadline was postponed to March following a December agreement.
As the revised deadline neared, Singh intensified public pressure on the government, accompanied by leaked reports of private dissatisfaction and threats to the media. Singh asserted on Friday that the inclusion of contraception and diabetes coverage exceeds the original terms of the agreement between the two parties.
He emphasized that the legislation distinctly advocates for a single-payer system, referencing the Canada Health Act, federal legislation governing the terms under which the government funds medicare services in Canada.