There are countries where euthanasia is permitted by law. But there are numerous examples of loud court trials of medical workers who are charged with premeditated patient murder. Both these illustrations are in constant debate “for” and “against” this discrete matter. The social and political activity directed toward the persuasion of the public opinion regarding euthanasia permission, i.e. the request approval of the mortally sick on the acceleration of their decease by any means necessary, is carried out by several states.
The supporters of euthanasia reason their position out of humanity considerations, whereas opponents consider its legalization as suicide assistance.
Quebec City - February 15th, 2010 the Quebec government's Legislative Committee began a series of consultations with 30 experts and organizations, hearing from the Federation of Quebec Medical Specialists (FMSQ) and the Quebec College of Physicians (CMQ), since today more doctors and provincial communities are ready to discuss the Quebec euthanasia issue. Geoffrey Kelley, the chairman of the committee, explained this hearing is necessary in order to prepare a consultation document for a forthcoming travelling public inquiry this autumn.
It is essential to introduce new legislative aspects concerning euthanasia that would guarantee doctors a clear policy on how should they assist a patient`s demise. Indeed, currently doctors believe they could be charged with murder for giving a “palliative sedative” to a patient in severe pain before they have reached the point of death, as the opiate medication high dosage itself sometimes can accelerate the act. As euthanasia falls under the criminal code, which is a federal matter, the Quebec government plans to put pressure on Ottawa for a change in the law. A bill to legalize euthanasia and assisted suicide, Bill C-384, is currently before the Canadian Parliament. The vote has been pushed back several times so far, and is currently expected for the middle of March.
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