B.C. civil rights group that fought for MAID now wants it reviewed

The British Columbia Civil Liberties Association (BCCLA) is urging both the provincial and federal governments to conduct a thorough review of the legislation surrounding medically-assisted dying (MAID) in order to guarantee that appropriate safeguards are in place.

Liza Hughes, the executive director of the BCCLA, released a statement expressing concerns over reports of individuals being offered MAID in situations that may not legally qualify or are a result of intolerable social circumstances. This call for action comes in light of a recent case where a 52-year-old man received MAID while on a day pass from a psychiatric hospital in Vancouver. The man’s family has since launched a constitutional challenge against the legal framework of the procedure.

Additionally, there was another case just two months ago where a BC judge intervened to halt a medically-assisted death for an Alberta woman scheduled to undergo the procedure in Vancouver. The BCCLA has been actively involved in advocating for the decriminalization of MAID nearly a decade ago.

Hughes emphasized the importance of individuals freely making the decision to seek medically-assisted dying and stressed that no one should be coerced into such a choice. She described the issue as complex, sensitive, and nuanced, highlighting the organization’s commitment to promoting choice, agency, and bodily autonomy.

The BCCLA is calling for the implementation, continuous review, and enforcement of appropriate safeguards to ensure that individuals are able to make this decision freely, while also receiving adequate social support to lead dignified lives. Hughes reiterated the organization’s dedication to holding the government accountable as they continue their work on MAID, recognizing its role in alleviating unbearable suffering and upholding the right to choose.

As it currently stands, medically-assisted death in Canada is only legal for individuals with physical health conditions. Those with mental illness as their primary medical condition will remain ineligible for MAID until at least March 2027. Health Canada’s fifth annual report on MAID revealed that 15,343 individuals received medical assistance in dying in Canada in 2023, marking a 15.8% increase from the previous year.

The BCCLA’s advocacy for proper safeguards and the protection of individuals’ rights in the context of MAID underscores the ongoing debate and evolution of end-of-life care legislation in Canada. By addressing the nuances and complexities of this issue, the organization continues to play a crucial role in shaping the future of medically-assisted dying practices in the country.