Good morning, everyone.
Today is the 21st meeting of the Special Joint Committee on Medical Assistance in Dying.
I would like to begin by welcoming members of the committee, witnesses, as well as those watching this meeting on the web.
My name is Marc Garneau and I am the Joint Chair of this committee representing the House of Commons, together with the Honourable Yonah Martin, the Joint Chair representing the Senate.
Today, we are continuing our examination of the statutory review of the provisions of the Criminal Code relating to medical assistance in dying and their application.
I would like to remind members and witnesses to keep their microphones muted unless they're recognized by name by a joint chair. As a reminder, all comments should be addressed through the joint chairs.
When speaking, please speak slowly and clearly. Interpretation in this video conference will work like in an in-person committee meeting. You have the choice at the bottom of your screen of floor, English or French.
With that, I'd like to welcome our witnesses for panel one, who are here to discuss the state of palliative care in Canada. As individuals, we have Julie Campbell, a nurse practitioner joining us by video conference, and Dr. Nathalie Zan, whom we hope will be on very soon. We also have, from the Christian Legal Fellowship, Derek Ross, executive director.
Thank you all for joining us this morning. We will begin with opening remarks by Ms. Campbell, followed by Mr. Ross and Dr. Zan. Hopefully Dr. Zan will have joined us by then.
Ms. Campbell, you will have five minutes to speak. The floor is yours. Please go ahead.