Government to reveal next steps for medically assisted dying, justice minister says | CBC News

Committee recommended against expanding MAID to those solely suffering from mental illness

Justice Minister Sean Fraser says the Liberal government will announce its planned path forward for medical assistance in dying on Wednesday.

"I feel confident that we've heard a range of different views in the development of the policy process and will be able to share next steps tomorrow," Fraser told reporters on Parliament Hill on Tuesday.

Unless the government intervenes, MAID will expand to cover mental illness in March of next year.

MAID should 'indefinitely exclude' people with mental illness, review urges

"I appreciate that I'm asking for patience, which can be hard at times. Look, it's a serious issue. I want to make sure I take the opportunity to line things up the appropriate way," Fraser said.

The report said a common theme across testimony was the "pressing need for increased and more equitable access to adequate mental health services."

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In its conclusion, the committee pointed to a "divergence of perspectives" on whether Canada is ready to expand eligibility to MAID to those suffering with mental illness.

The government could put its support behind that legislation or introduce a new bill. When asked, Fraser didn't indicate which route he is planning to take.

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