New Democrat MLAs across B.C. participated in events to mark World AIDS Day.

It has been more than 20 years since the first such day was recognized internationally. Since then, there has been significant progress in research and treatment, with B.C. providing leadership in many areas.

B.C. is home to some of the world's leading HIV/AIDS research. We’ve developed breakthrough drug therapies responsible for a making a profound difference in people’s quality of life and prognosis.

Our province is responsible for introducing innovative, effective strategies to slow HIV transmission that are being adopted worldwide.

Our health care and support workers who work with individuals living with HIV/AIDS are setting the new standards of care that other jurisdictions are now seeking to match. For example, the innovative programs created and provided by the Dr. Peter AIDS Foundation Centre are studied and emulated by organizations worldwide.

The New Democrat caucus commends and thanks frontline health care staff and researchers for their commitment to improving the lives of people with HIV/AIDS, and to eradicating the disease itself.

B.C.'s contributions to the battle against HIV/AIDS significantly impact countless patients and families, and transform the lives of people who are diagnosed with the virus and disease, both here and globally.

It is critical that legislators continue to support coordinated, consistent investments in research, harm reduction and prevention, and the necessary services in the community.