Justice Minister: "Laws surrounding euthanasia and assisted suicide exist to protect all Canadians."

Hon. Peter MacKay

Hon. Peter MacKay, Justice Minister and Attorney General of Canada commented on the Appeal Court ruling that upheld Canada's laws protecting people from euthanasia and assisted suicide.

In a statement issued by his press secretary Paloma Aguilar, Justice Minister Peter MacKay also defended the Appeal Court's ruling.

"The decision made today by the B.C. Court of Appeal reinforces our government’s view that the Criminal Code provisions that prohibit medical professionals, or anyone else, from counselling or providing assistance in a suicide, are constitutionally valid," he said.  

"The laws surrounding euthanasia and assisted suicide exist to protect all Canadians, including those who are most vulnerable."

Link to the Canadian Press video of Hon. Peter MacKay explaining his opposition to legalizing euthanasia and assisted suicide.

The case will likely be heard by the Supreme Court of Canada.

Links to similar articles:

BC Court of Appeal upholds protections in law from euthanasia and assisted suicide.

Canada's federal government will not support assisted suicide.

Canada's Health Minister says no to assisted suicide.