Close to 40 per cent of deaths in Quebec are related to heart disease. Continued investment in research, prevention and actions relating to this major cause of death is therefore of vital importance. Considerable progress has been made in the past forty years. The proportion of deaths attributable to cardiovascular diseases has dropped markedly and the downward trend continues. We are on the right path, but we must continue our efforts.
Smoking is one of the many factors affecting cardiovascular disease statistics.
The Bloc intends to keep a very close eye on what the Minister of Health does in relation to smoking, in order to ensure that all steps taken are appropriate and effective. The health of Quebecers and Canadians alike deserves nothing less. With that observation I wish to read some excerpts from a letter to the Western Producer by T. A. Howe of Regina. The continuing tragic ethnic wars of our world attest to the folly of promoting societies and distinctions based on ethnic heritage. The bell is a symbol of Metis heritage and represents an important period in Metis history.