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Right to die

Resident provides information on legislation put forward in Ottawa

Unfortunately, Bill C14 has been misrepresented.

Alex Schadenberg says Bill C14 fails to protect the vulnerable.

“When signing a request for euthanasia, the bill requires that a medical or nurse practitioner to only: be satisfied that the request was signed and dated by the person, which is a pretty minimal standard,” states event organizers in a release.

Bill C-14 actually says;

"(e) ensure that another medical practitioner or nurse practitioner has provided a written opinion confirming that the person meets all of the criteria set out in subsection (1);

(f) be satisfied that they and the other medical practitioner or nurse practitioner referred to in paragraph (e) are independent;"

Schadenberg says;

“When the person is unable to sign the request, the bill allows anyone to sign the request. Section 4 states: anyone can sign the request so long as they are at least 18 years of age and who understands the nature of the request. That’s a frightening thought.”

Bill C-14 actually says;

"(c) be satisfied that the request was signed and dated by the person — or by another person under subsection (4) — before two independent witnesses who then also signed and dated the request;

Subsection (4) If the person requesting medical assistance in dying is unable to sign and date the request, another person — who is at least 18 years of age and who understands the nature of the request for medical assistance in dying — may do so in the person’s presence on their behalf."

Dave Jackson

Vernon