Resolution - 05.11
Assisted Suicide - A Criminal Offence

Submitted by: B.C. & Yukon Provincial Council

Whereas, The federal justice minister wants parliament to re-open the debate on assisted suicide currently prohibited under Section 241 of the Criminal Code which states, ?Every one who (a) counsels a person to commit suicide, or (b) aids or abets a person to commit suicide, whether suicide ensues or not, is guilty of an indictable offense??; and

Whereas, The lives of the vulnerable, the elderly, the disabled and those facing a life-threatening illness will be at risk if assisted suicide does not remain an indictable offence; therefore, be it

Resolved, That the national council of The Catholic Women's League of Canada, in 85th annual national convention assembled, urge the federal government to retain Section 241 as an indictable offence under the Criminal Code.

 

Requested Members' Action:
•  write letters to the prime minister, attorney general, and ministers of health and state (families and caregivers) urging that Section 241 of the Criminal Code be retained
•  send copies to your local members of federal and provincial governments and police chief
•  volunteer in community hospice programs and long-term care facilities
•  invite guest speakers from organizations such as Euthanasia Prevention Coalition Box 25033, London, ON N6C 6A8; telephone: (877) 439-3348; e-mail: euthanasiaprevention@on.aibn.com
• host community forums