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Nova Scotia Premier Stephen McNeil wants discussion on doctor assisted death

Darpan News Desk The Canadian Press, 12 Feb, 2015 12:22 PM

HALIFAX — Nova Scotia's premier says Canadians need to have a mature conversation about assisted dying following last week's decision by the Supreme Court of Canada striking down a ban on doctor-assisted death.

Stephen McNeil says it's time to reach out to the public and the medical community in order to find out if there is a way to allow people to end their lives when faced with a terminal illness.

McNeil says he's not sure the state should be making decisions for people who have terminal illnesses and are considering assisted death.

The Supreme Court ruling gives Parliament a year to draft legislation that recognizes the right of clearly consenting adults who are enduring intolerable physical or mental suffering to seek medical help in ending their lives.

Justice Minister Peter MacKay said Wednesday the federal government would be taking the time it needs to respond to the issue.

McNeil wouldn't say what if any role the province can play as Ottawa considers the issue, adding that Criminal Code decisions are up to Ottawa.

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