Provincial commission supports doctor-assisted suicide

A commission backed by multiple political party members recommended the legalization of doctor-assisted euthanasia.

The Dying with Dignity report was presented in the National Assembly yesterday according to the Montreal Gazette.  It recommended legalizing doctor-assisted suicide in cases where adults are suffering from terminal illnesses linked to unbearable physical and psychological pain.

While the report is not binding Health Minister Yves Bolduc said the province would consider it.

Euthanasia is illegal across Canada but prosecution in health care matters falls under provincial jurisdiction.  Quebec could follow British Columbia’s suit and refrain from prosecuting  doctors who meet a certain criteria. 

Flickr photo by truthout.org