Hon. Kristopher Wells: My question is for the Government Representative in the Senate.

In recognition of World AIDS Day, we wear a red ribbon as a symbol of courage and hope. It reminds us that the story of HIV is written not only in science but in the lives and losses of millions. It is a story shaped by courage, inequity and the unrelenting work of those who refuse to let compassion fade and hope die.

HIV remains a significant public health challenge in Canada and around the world. Prevention gaps persist. Comprehensive sexual health education is not consistently available, and millions rely upon global efforts, particularly the Global Fund, for access to life-saving prevention and treatment.

Senator Moreau, through you, I ask the government what concrete steps Canada is taking this World AIDS Day to strengthen its response to this issue, specifically by increasing investments in HIV prevention, supporting comprehensive sexual health and ensuring Canada continues to be a strong and reliable contributor to the Global Fund’s work to end AIDS globally.

Hon. Pierre Moreau (Government Representative in the Senate): The short answer to your question is that the Government of Canada will continue to work with communities, health care providers, health authorities and organizations to put an end to HIV as a public health concern.

I thank you, senator, for highlighting World AIDS Day.

I will note that after several years of increases in Canada, we saw a small decline in the national rate of new HIV diagnoses in 2024 compared to 2023. However, the government knows HIV remains a concern in Canada. That is why the government’s renewed action plan on sexually transmitted and blood-borne infections, or STBBIs, recognizes that STBBIs do not affect all people equally, and it outlines a response to address overlapping social and structural factors that shape health outcomes.

Senator K. Wells: Thank you, Senator Moreau.

I’m concerned that some provincial governments continue to restrict access to comprehensive sexual health education in schools and others refuse to release timely information about the alarming rates of HIV and STBBIs. Prevention and education are critical in this work.

Can the government specify when we can expect updated funding allocations for prevention and education through the Public Health Agency of Canada? Also, will Canada restore its contribution level to the Global Fund?

Senator Moreau: There is already a strong pledge of $1.02 billion that reflects Canada’s continued resolve to support the coordinated global efforts to tackle major health challenges, while staying in line with our historical levels of support for and recovery from the investment surge for the COVID-19 pandemic. The Global Fund is a highly effective financing mechanism that delivers for the poorest and most marginalized, while strengthening global and Canadian health security.