Federal government urged to immediately appeal judicial-activist decision on assisted suicide and euthanasia
Toronto, ON, June 18, 2012 - Last Friday an activist-judge in B.C. declared that Canada’s criminal code prohibition against assisted suicide is “unconstitutional”. She assumed power and told parliament, from the bench, that they have one year to legalize euthanasia or assisted suicide in Canada. Campaign Life Coalition says this decision puts all Canadians at risk, most especially the elderly and disabled.
To justify striking down our laws, Justice Lyn Smith of the B.C. Supreme Court ignored irrefutable evidence, and numerous studies, which prove that in other countries where assisted suicide and euthanasia has been legalized, abuse followed. The judge falsely alleged that “safeguards” have been effective in those jurisdictions to prevent elder abuse and the “slippery slope” cautioned by euthanasia opponents.
Justice Smith also took on the role of executioner by granting Gloria Taylor a constitutional exemption, allowing her doctor to cause her death by euthanasia or assisted suicide.
Campaign Life Coalition is calling upon the federal government to immediately appeal this decision to the BC Court of Appeal and to stay the constitutional exemption for Gloria Taylor. The organization also calls upon the Prime Minister and Justice Minister Rob Nicholson to make a public declaration that they will use the “activist-judge override provision” (a.k.a. Section 33 of the Charter) if necessary, to overrule the courts and preserve criminal code prohibitions.
About Campaign Life Coalition:
Campaign Life Coalition is a national, non-profit organization involved in political action and advocacy for legal and cultural change in Canada with respect to protecting human life and the family. It is non-partisan and encourages voting based on principles, not party. For more information visit www.campaignlifecoalition.com.
Media Contacts:
Mary Ellen Douglas, Campaign Life Coalition National Organizer, 416-204-9740 ext.262
Johanne Brownrigg – Ottawa Lobby Office 613-729-0379
George Buscemi- Quebec Life Coalition (QLC) 514-344-2686
Maria Slykerman CLC Manitoba 204-284-0494
Margie Hynes CLC Newfoundland 709-279-0898
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