The Quebec government announced Friday it is suing tobacco companies for more than $Can60 billion to recover costs of providing health care to people with smoking-related illnesses.
The lawsuit will target tobacco companies at home and abroad, and will seek damages associated with the cost of treating patients from the 1970s until 2030, Quebec Justice Minister Jean-Marc Fournier said.
The decision to sue for future costs was based on evidence that "smokers continue to suffer serious health problems throughout their lives," he explained.
"These manufacturers neglected to warn consumers, including children and teenagers, about the harmful aspects of their products."
Four other provinces -- Ontario, British Columbia, New Brunswick and Newfoundland -- have already launched lawsuits against the tobacco industry.
Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island, Saskatchewan and Manitoba have announced their plans to file suits shortly. Alberta has also indicated it will seek damages.
Health care is under the jurisdiction of provinces in Canada.
