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This document describes four key biotechnology issues and poses specific questions that seek the perspectives of respondents for consideration in developing advice for government. The introductory sections discuss the ethical context of decisions on public policy issues related to biotechnology and present an overview of biotechnology and the patenting of higher life forms. The main section sets out the issues and discussion points on the following: what should & should not be patented; the mechanisms of governance available for change in patent law & policy; how social & ethical issues should be addressed; and international obligations & competitiveness. Includes glossary.

Ce rapport porte sur une étude relative aux droits de propriété intellectuelle des inventions liées au matériel génétique humain et à lʹapplication des innovations dans le secteur de la santé. Lʹétude met lʹaccent sur les abus des droits de brevet qui donnent lieu à un accès réduit aux tests diagnostiques génétiques brevetés. Le rapport fournit des commentaires sur les conclusions et les recommandations de lʹétude, notamment sur les changements importants à apporter à la Loi sur les brevets.

Biotechnology-based health innovations over the past century have contributed significantly to the remarkable improvements in the health of Canadians. Recent advances suggest that biotechnology may play an even more significant role in the future. Describes the potential role of biotechnology in relation to the various factors that influence health, discusses some of the social and ethical considerations involved in the applications of biotechnology, sets out a policy framework, and recommends actions necessary to equip our systems to meet the challenges that the unfolding era of modern biotechnology will present.

The Committee's role is to advise Ministers on the broad policy issues associated with ethical, social, regulatory, economic, scientific, environmental and health aspects of biotechnology. This annual report covers general activities (monitoring and reporting developments, communications, outreach activities) and priority special projects (genetically modified foods, intellectual property, patenting of higher life forms). It also includes recent developments in science, the biotechnology industry, regulation, and international developments. Appendices include a glossary and research programs.

The Committee's role is to advise Ministers on the broad policy issues associated with ethical, social, regulatory, economic, scientific, environmental and health aspects of biotechnology. This annual report covers general activities (monitoring and reporting developments, communications, outreach activities) and priority special projects (genetically modified foods, intellectual property, patenting of higher life forms). It also includes recent developments in science, the biotechnology industry, regulation, and international developments. Appendices include a glossary and research programs.