Letter of the week
Dear Editor,
I am deeply concerned about our society’s growing tendency to encourage and facilitate the killing of human beings. On June 15th, 2012, B.C. Supreme Court Justice Lynn Smith legislated from the bench (usurping the role of Parliament) that Canada’s criminal code prohibition against assisted suicide is “unconstitutional.” This decision puts all Canadians at risk, most especially the elderly and disabled. Because of its past, Germany today takes a strong stand against attempts to advance euthanasia and assisted suicide. Germany has learned from its past. Canada must not ignore those same lessons. Your readership must consider the fallout of such poorly considered legislation!
Legalizing assisted suicide or euthanasia will profoundly change the psyche of our health care system for the worse. Palliative care and pain management medicine must be Canada’s first concern.
The slippery slope tread by the encouragement of legalized assisted suicide has lead the Netherlands to loosen its restrictions over time. Now, it is legal for those suffering from depression to end their lives without proper psychiatric care and support from the medical system.
What kind of life are we making for future Canadians with dangerous moves like these? We have the chance to stop it before it starts.
Peter Horner
North Vancouver
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