Thousands sign declaration on euthanasia

Leaders of many faith groups add their names to the list

The Quebec Parliament in Quebec City in 2014. (Photo: Philippe Vaillancourt, Presence / CNS)

 

A joint document by the Canadian Conference of Catholic Bishops and the Evangelical Fellowship of Canada has added more voices to the debate on euthanasia and assisted suicide.

The declaration, which currently has 5,483 signatures, opposes the practice of intentionally ending the lives of ill patients.

"We affirm that reverence for human life is the basis and reason for our compassion, responsibility, and commitment in caring for all humans, our brothers and sisters, when they are suffering and in pain."

The document asks legislators to enact "laws that enhance human solidarity by promoting the rights to life and security for all people," to improve access to quality home and palliative care, and to ensure the freedom of conscience of all health care workers. It is open for the public to sign.

The Supreme Court has granted parliament a four-month extension to the original deadline to write new laws about euthanasia and assisted suicide.