You have probably been aware of the BC Government’s order for the Delta Hospice to start providing MAiD on-site.
The hospice has pointed out to the government that it would be in violation of the Societies Act if it provided MAiD. The Societies Act says that the Delta Hospice must act within its Charter and that Charter requires the hospice to help people ‘live fully”
The Hospice has also offered to take a cut in government funding so that they would fall within the MAiD exemption (those funded under 51% do not have to offer MAiD in their facilities).
They also point out that MAiD is offered in the facility right next door, so this isn’t a question of access.
So far the BC government has refused to accept Delta’s offer to take a cut in government funding and seems intent on driving its agenda forward.
You can read their full press release here:
There will also be a rally at the BC Legislature on February 15th in support of the hospice.
The federal MP for that riding Tamara Jansen is very supportive of the Delta Hospice. You may wish to drop her a thank you note.
– Tamara Jansen: tamara.jansen@parl.gc.ca
If you live in BC, you may choose to write to one of the following individuals:
– Jim Sinclair, Chair, Fraser Health Authority jim.sinclair@fraserhealth.ca
– Victoria Lee, CEO, Fraser Health Authority victoria.lee@fraserhealth.ca
– Adrian Dix, Minister of Health HLTH.Minister@gov.bc.ca
– Ian Paton, MLA Ian.paton@leg.bc.ca
– John Horgan, Premier premier@gove.bc.ca
Everyone, no matter where they live, can write letters of support to the hospice board directed to their President Angela Ireland irelandangelina@gmail.com
Thank you for your attention. We will keep you up-to-date as this unfolds.
Nicole
Nicole Scheidl
Executive Director