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Government compensation for thalidomide babies

Broadcast Date: Dec. 15, 1963

In January 1963, Federal Health Minister J. Waldo Monteith, states on CBC Television: "It is our job to ensure that these victims are cared for in the best possible manner... [and] their needs are met to the fullest possible extent we can devise...."

In September of that year, the minister announces that an agreement has been worked out between the provincial and federal governments to provide financial compensation to assist with medical expenses faced by thalidomide families. A young family whose baby was born with defects due to thalidomide reacts with hope to the news.

Government compensation for thalidomide babies

• Between 1957 and 1962, thalidomide was available in over 46 different countries under many different brand names. Before it was recalled from use, the drug had caused the malformation of about 10,000 children throughout the world, over 100 of whom were in Canada.
• There are approximately 5,000 thalidomide survivors today around the world. Never counted and never to be known are the numbers of babies miscarried or stillborn.

Also on December 15:
• 1964: The House of Commons votes 163-to-78 to adopt the red and white maple leaf design as Canada's flag.
• 1988: The Supreme Court of Canada strikes down the French-only sign provisions of Quebec's language law known as Bill 101. The Court ruled it was violating freedom of expression.
• 1993: Monteal synchronized swimmer Sylvie Frechette wins Olympic gold, finally. Frechette had been awarded silver at the 1992 Games in Barcelona after a judge pressed the wrong key.

Government compensation for thalidomide babies

Medium: Radio

Program: Project '64

Broadcast Date: Dec. 15, 1963

Interviewer: Marjorie McEnaney

Duration: 1:26

Last updated:
July 7, 2009