Healthy vision should not be taken for granted according to one Northern MP.
Algoma-Manitoulin-Kapuskasing MP Carol Hughes says she wants to see a Pan-Canadian Framework for action on Eye Health and Vision Care.
Hughes says she has been struck by the challenges that so many Canadians, especially children, have dealt with and sees room for improvement.
She says she has been delivering petitions in support of the idea and encouraging other MPs to get involved as well.
“Although I tabled a motion, this is an idea that isn’t particularly partisan. I would be happy if all MPs get behind it and pass the motion so we can promote a policy direction that will ultimately help children.”
Hughes’ motion calls on the government to work with the provinces, territories, Indigenous communities and governments, as well as not-for-profit eye health and vision care organizations towards the creation of a pan-Canadian framework of action.
“Currently, there are too many gaps and children are experiencing different levels of care, even something as simple as vision testing isn’t done for all children, and that alone can leave some undiagnosed and struggling to keep up in school.”
Last month Hughes hosted an Eye Read and Play event in cooperation with the CAO to help inform other MPs of the issue.
