Thalidomide survivors celebrate federal announcement

After decades of waiting, Canadian victims of thalidomide are celebrating a recent announcement by the federal government.

• Thalidomide survivors seek more financial support from Ottawa

On Friday, the health minister announced yearly payments for those suffering from the effects of the drug prescribed to pregnant mothersin the'60s in amounts of $25,000, $75,000 and $100,000.The drug caused serious birthdefects.

For CalgarianMarie Olney, who was born with extremely shortarms,it means she can breath a little bit easier.

"I'm very pleased," she said."Ithink I can do some planning now. Ican manage a lot safer than I have been managing and take care of some needs thatI've been putting off."

Delays

The federal government announced one-time lump sum payments in March but withheld information aboutannual pensions.The Thalidomide Victims Association of Canadafrustrated by a lack of details gave Ottawa until Monday to come up with a plan.

Association president Mercedes Benegbiisthrilled with the last-minute announcement,saying more than 70 per cent of survivors will receive at least $75,000 peryear.

"We believe that this funding will make a profound difference in the lives of survivors and provide them with meaningful support for the rest of their lives," she said.

The federal government says there will be a mandatory review every five yearsto ensure the needs of more than 90 Canadian survivors continue to be met.