Thank you, Mr. Chair.
Dr. Sareen, I don't think there's a consensus on expanding MAID access to those whose sole medical condition is a mental illness. Nevertheless, there seems to be a consensus around the table, as well as in each province, about the lack of mental health services and supports. To fix that, the federal government has to increase its transfers to the provinces, which struggle to fund the necessary services.
The fact remains that people suffering from an enduring and incurable mental illness should have the right or freedom to make their own choices, live independently and, above all, live in dignity. They should be able to make the same choice those suffering from a chronic illness can.
What I want you to understand is this: In my view, people with an enduring and incurable mental illness who have received years of care and have the necessary support and services should also have the right to make their own decision in the end, to make a free and informed choice about what happens to them.
Dr. Gandham, in your practice, have you come across a patient with a mental illness who had no other way to end their suffering, so you would understand why that person would want to avail themselves of MAID and you would grant their request?