Last week, the Supreme Court of British Columbia issued a really bad ruling that opens the door to assisted suicide in at least that province. From what I’ve heard and read so far, the court skirted the issue of discrimination; that even if it’s legal to attempt to kill yourself, that doesn’t mean you get a painless and foolproof way to kill yourself. Well, this Court things it’s OK – as long as you’re old, ill or disabled.
Below is the press release from the Council of Canadians with Disabilities (CCD):
Canadians with Disabilities Dismayed by BC Court Approval of Assisted Suicide
15 June 2012
For Immediate Release
Today, the Supreme Court of British Columbia handed down its decision in the Carter case, opening the door for assisted suicide in Canada. Justice Lynn Smith found that the “provisions of the Criminal Code of Canada prohibiting physician–assisted dying, unjustifiably infringe the equality rights of Gloria Taylor, and the rights to life, liberty and security of the person of Gloria Taylor, Lee Carter and Hollis Johnson.”
Canadians with disabilities are disappointed by the Judge’s decision. There is a concern that vulnerable people will be put at risk if the Criminal Code provisions against assisted suicide are struck down. The Council of Canadians with Disabilities (CCD) urges the Government of Canada to appeal this decision.
Canadians who are concerned with this decision should write the Minister of Justice and encourage an appeal of this decision to the Supreme Court. Before any law is changed the interests of vulnerable persons including people with disabilities must be addressed.
-30-
For More Information Contact:
Dean Richert, Co-chair, CCD Ending of Life Ethics Committee,
Tel: 204-951-6273 (cell), Email: drichert@odgb.mb.ca
Hello
I am from Nassau Bahamas and as a part of my Bioethic class I am preparing a powerpoint about ‘Disability’ in bioethics. I am interested in your cause and would like to know more about it. The Terri Schivo case has sent waves here as well. I have done some reading on disability and the ethical implications byut really want to understand a bit more about ‘Not Dead Yet’. ANy info you can provide will be apporeciated.
Dawn Renee
Dear Dawn,
Sorry for the delay. I’d suggest that you explore the website fully for information and material. Most of what we have available is here – or soon will be.