What is the regulatory framework governing the participation of children in genetic research in Quebec?
• The Civil Code of Quebec (Art. 21) states that “A minor who is incapable of giving consent may not be submitted to an experiment if the experiment involves serious risk to his health or, if he objects upon understanding the nature and consequences of the experiment.” It adds that a minor may only be submitted to an experiment if it has the potential to benefit his or her health or that of the group to which he or she belongs. Finally, the Civil Code states that consent must be sought from the person having parental authority or a legal representative.
