End of life Issues

I recently wrote this letter - and a variation on it to the Minister of Health and the Prime Minister:

Dear Minister Wilson-Raybould,
     As a Roman Catholic Priest, I am very concerned about the protection of vulnerable people in our society.  I am also gravely worried about conscience rights for Canadian physicians who refuse to participate in assisted suicide/euthanasia. While I am opposed to any form of assisted suicide, I recognize that our government must prepare legislation on this issue following the Supreme Court of Canada decision last year.
     I am concerned that the recommendations of the Commons-Senate Committee on Physician Assisted Death do not protect doctors’ conscience rights adequately. A referral, even to a third party, is a form of moral participation. I am also very troubled by the recommendation that facilities should not be allowed to opt-out of providing physician-assisted death in their facilities. Many of these institutions pre-date the confederation of Canada. 
     As one who works with people who experience mental health issues, and in particular depression, I find it deeply distressing that Canada would allow access to assisted suicide for those suffering from depression and other mental health issues. My question to the Prime Minister, and to the Minister of Health is: why are we not providing greater support for these people, and access to palliative care for all Canadians?
     I believe the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms protects Canadian citizens from being forced by the state to act against their moral or religious convictions. There are certainly alternative ways to respect a patient's request without compelling dedicated physicians to face professional disciplinary action simply because they wish to follow their conscience or forcing the closure of facilities that will not provide doctor assisted death.
     I ask you and those who will craft this upcoming legislation to please carefully consider my concerns as these policy deliberations are conducted. I request that whatever legislation is developed respects and protects the vulnerable as well as the conscience rights of Canadian physicians, other health care providers, and all facilities objecting to providing assisted death.

If you feel strongly about this issue - I encourage you to also write a letter to the Attorney General and or thed Prime Minister.

Peace