I fully realize the composition of our Parliament. As a democrat, I will always uphold a democratic decision.
I do have a concern, however. In my previous occupation.... I know that parties that form the government at one time or another can, and probably do, look upon every issue as setting a precedent. If every person or every prisoner in this country wanted something from somebody, and said the best way to get whatever you wanted was to go on a hunger strike, would we be wrong or right in always acquiescing or trying to make accommodations for individuals or groups of individuals, and change the way we do things specifically because of that situation?
A person's health is a very important thing. We have a responsibility to make sure we provide the necessities of life and take care of people whose freedoms we limit and curtail. It's a personal choice, but I am very worried that we will begin to change the way we do things, change the fundamental way governments operate, and change policies because somebody doesn't agree with something.
It's important to take care of people's health. I think we should afford every Canadian, every person in our custody, equal access or ready access to health professionals so they can guard their health. But I am really concerned that we will begin to change the way we do things. Maybe I am not seeing the whole picture, so I'd like to keep an open mind and listen to other people's points of view.
I know that Mr. Comartin cares very much about people, but to get what I want from somebody, if I put my life in jeopardy, my health in jeopardy, is it right for me to expect people to change the way they do things significantly, change the rules? That's my concern right now.