The Government of Canada is taking action to streamline access to medicines to save lives, reduce costs, and build our economy.

Today, the Honourable Marjorie Michel, Minister of Health, announced the creation of the Pharmaceutical and Life Sciences Sector Task Force. The Task Force will explore innovative, made-in-Canada solutions that enhance competitiveness, and long-term growth to support reliable and sustainable access to pharmaceutical products in Canada.

A stronger life sciences sector will ensure Canadians can access the medicines they need, when they need them—while supporting job growth, innovation, and long-term economic growth across the country.

The Task Force will be co-chaired by Martin Leblanc, co-founder and Vice-Chairman of CellCarta Biosciences, and Michelle Boudreau, a former Associate Assistant Deputy Minister at Health Canada. The co-chairs share complementary experience and expertise that will support them in leading the Task Force.

The Task Force will also include members from, Select national industry associations, Select pharmaceutical representatives, Select biotechnology firms, Select regulatory, policy and research partners.

Martin Leblanc was the Chief Executive Officer of CellCarta Biosciences (formerly known as Caprion) for over 16 years and had led the company's technology development, laboratory operations and commercial strategy, focused on specialized precision medicine laboratory research services for the global biopharmaceutical industry. Mr. Leblanc has a Bachelor's Degree in Economics from the University of Moncton and a Master of Arts in Economics and Politics from Oxford University, where he was a Rhodes Scholar.

Michelle Boudreau has worked in community and hospital pharmacies and with the Government of Canada. At Health Canada, she held various leadership positions in areas such as program administration, pharmaceutical policy and health product regulation, as well as legal counsel. Ms. Boudreau holds degrees in pharmacy and law.

The Task Force will bring together senior leaders and experts from across the pharmaceutical and life sciences sector. Its recommendations will inform the Government of Canada's approach to strengthening Canada's life sciences ecosystem and ensuring everyone has timely access to safe and effective medicines.