Empowering doctors and nurses to bring about death either by lethal injection or by providing deadly drugs by abolishing the law that for centuries gave protection to the most vulnerable, is a black mark on Canada.
Even pagan Hippocrates knew better: “I will not give a lethal drug to anyone if I am asked, nor will I advise such a plan.”
Contrast that to today’s medicine when most pain can be controlled (compared) to what people suffered and endured centuries ago.
Bill C-14, although a bit more restrictive than the recommendations from the Liberal-dominated committee, is still very troubling.
The bill does not provide effective oversight in law.
Two independent physicians or nurse practitioners must approve the request for euthanasia. However, those carrying out the act do the reporting.
Furthermore, the bill gives legal immunity under section 241.3 and 241.5 to anyone who takes part in aiding an assisted death if it is asked for.
Who could prove that granny asked for it – she could be dead for the sake of her inheritance.
Elder abuse is at an all-time high. Where assisted suicide is legal the suicide rates raise dramatically.
There is no explicit protection for health-care practitioners’ conscience rights to opt out of killing their patients or make referral to someone who will do the deed.
This is a clear violation of the Charter of Rights and Freedoms.
Death, once invited, leaves its muddy footprints.
Hildegard Krieg
