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MP McLeod delivers constituents’ views on physician-assisted dying

Member of Parliament for Kamloops-Thompson-Cariboo, delivers her constituents’ views

Ottawa, Feb. 3, 2016 – Cathy McLeod, Member of Parliament for Kamloops-Thompson-Cariboo, today delivered her constituents’ views to the House of Commons’ Special Joint Committee on Physician-Assisted Dying.

On February 6, 2015 the Supreme Court of Canada said that our current law that makes it illegal for anyone to help a person end their own life should be amended to allow doctors to help in specific circumstances.

The Supreme Court gave the federal government 12 months plus a 4 month extension to craft the new legislation in response to this ruling.

“In the spring of 2015, I reached out to the constituents of Kamloops – Thompson - Cariboo, asking for their position on this important and difficult topic,” MP McLeod said.

“Since last June, I have received a significant majority of responses that agreed with the Supreme Court decision. I want to express my appreciation for those who took the time to share their personal experiences with me.

“There were so many well thought-out, quality suggestions that I have forwarded them to the Committee for their consideration,” stated McLeod.

The Special Committee was convened on January 22, and is currently holding a series of public consultations to hear from experts and stakeholders with the goal of reporting back to Parliament with legislative suggestions by February 26.