Bill C-6, which is also known as the Canada Consumer Product Safety Act (or CCPSA), was introduced by the Government of Canada in January. The purpose of the Bill, according to the government, is "to modernize and strengthen product safety laws to further protect the health and safety of Canadians."
However, this new Bill is very similar to Bill C-51, which prompted a broad citizen revolt when it was introduced into Parliament last year with the intent to amend the Food and Drugs Act. Once again, we need to be informed. Shawn Buckley, president of the Natural Health Products Protection Association, says, "As with Bill C-51, Canadians have reason to be concerned over Bill C-6."
Here's what you can do:
1. Read Buckley's discussion paper on Bill C-6. Find it on the Natural Health Product Protection Association (NHPPA) website at www.nhppa.org.
2. Keep up to date on where Bill C-6 is on the legislative order paper. (It's important to know this, as it helps your conversations and communications with your MP and others.) Go to and save the following web link: www.parl.gc.ca/legisinfo/index.asp?Language=E&query=5655&Session=22&List=toc
3. Call or e-mail the government to ask what the status of Bill C-6 is and any other questions or concerns you have. Call (toll free) 1-866-599-4999 or e-mail info@parl.gc.ca.
4. Call or e-mail your member of parliament. If you don't know who your MP is, you can look him or her up using your postal code at the following web link:
http://www2.parl.gc.ca/Parlinfo/Compilations/HouseOf...
5. Mail your member of parliament. Mail may be sent postage-free to any MP at the following address: House of Commons Parliament Buildings, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada K1A 0A6
6. Sign up for the HANS e-news. It's free! Go to www.hans.org to sign up.
7. Support organizations (NHPPA, HANS) that keep you informed on important topics such as Bill C-6.