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.
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.
