Alberta introduces voluntary blood donation act

The Government of Alberta today introduced proposed voluntary blood donation legislation that would prohibit payment for blood donations in the province. While Canadian Blood Services is currently reviewing the legislation, it supports Alberta's efforts to help further strengthen Canada’s voluntary, non-remunerated, publicly funded collections model.

Canadian Blood Services recognizes it is up to governments to determine the appropriate public policy and legislative agendas that fall within their purview. We will continue to work with all jurisdictions to ensure we collectively continue to meet the needs of patients across Canada.

 For nearly 20 years, Canadian Blood Services has been responsible for providing Canada with a safe, secure and affordable system of blood and blood products, including drugs manufactured from human plasma ; this is a duty we have delivered on consistently. We have a clear role in monitoring and planning for plasma sufficiency for the country and in meeting the needs of Canadian patients.

As stewards of the blood system in Canada, we are currently in discussions with government following the tabling of our business plan to increase the amount of plasma  we collect from Canadian donors, as per our voluntary, non-remunerated (unpaid), publicly funded model.

Alberta has a long and proud history of support for the blood system, and we are pleased to see recognition of the work and contributions of the many donors and volunteers in the province. We value and appreciate all of our donors, who voluntarily give of themselves to help patients in need.