Finally, I have one more thought on assisted suicide.
The Association is concerned about section 241.1b) of BillC-14, which in our opinion opens the door to a type of assisted suicide. In our view, it must be very clear that medical assistance in dying is and must remain a strictly medical act, administered by a physician, nurse clinician or pharmacist, according to the legislative provisions of each province.
There are four reasons for this.
First, current medical science makes it possible for persons with serious and grave medical conditions to live very comfortably for a period of time. It is incumbent on medicine to help patients until the end and to respect their independence and dignity when they can endure no more, either physically and psychologically.
Second, the immediate and compassionate presence of a physician or nurse clinician is necessary to address any problem that might arise during the administration of medical assistance in dying.
Third, a very strict framework must be established as regards professional, ethical and moral conduct and responsibility.
Fourth, any confusion must be prevented between medical assistance in dying and an unexpected suicide, which is always a terrible tragedy.
We understand the objective of not making it a crime for someone to help another person choose assisted suicide, whether in Switzerland or elsewhere. Yet the possibility of obtaining medical assistance in dying in Canada should eliminate this alternative, and fairly, regardless of the physical, financial or psychosocial capacities of the person with the terminal condition.
Thank you for your attention.