Gallant Pleased Compensation for Pre-1986/Post- 1990 Hep C Victims Finally Approved

August 09, 2007

Pembroke, Ontario - Cheryl Gallant, M.P. for Renfrew-Nipissing-Pembroke welcomes the court decision to approve the Settlement Agreement for all those infected with hepatitis C from the blood system prior to January 1, 1986, and from July 1, 1990, to September 28, 1998.

In 1998, Provincial and Federal health ministers announced a $1.2 billion compensation package for victims who contracted hepatitis C from tainted blood between 1986 and 1990.  The arbitrary date selection for qualification resulted in the exclusion of many, however, the court’s recent decision will allows for those left out of the original compensation package to finally be compensated.  “While no amount of money can fully compensate these victims for their pain and suffering, Canada’s new Government has never wavered in its commitment to compensate all victims of tainted blood, no matter the date of infection”, stated Gallant.

Crawford Class Actions Services has been selected as the administrator of the compensation fund and are currently establishing the procedures by which they will accept and review applications and provide compensation to long awaiting victims.  “My office has received numerous inquiries from victims wondering about the application process and when they can expect payment.  I trust the fund administrators will act accordingly to ensure payment to victims as quickly as possible”, explained Gallant.  

It is expected applications for compensation will be made available on August 10th, 2007.  Hep C victims who have already submitted an application for compensation to the Province or who have registered with a law office should receive an application automatically.  For all others, a link to application information will be posted on the Public Health Agency of Canada and the Health Canada web sites and on August 10th, a notice will be made in the media informing all applicants of the application process. 

“Pre-1986/Post-1990 Hep C victims have waited a long time to receive recognition and the compensation they deserve.  My office will be pleased to assist applicants with the application process as much as possible”, confirmed Gallant.