Dying with Dignity: Are Politics Being Played with End of Life Choices? (Part 1)

In February 2015, the Supreme Court of Canada sent a powerful message heard around the world. In a unanimous decision, the justices of the high court struck down the federal prohibition on physician assisted dying and decided the old law violates the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms. In keeping with Canadian values of compassion and individual freedom, the decision could reshape how we experience death and dying in the future. In July 2015, the Federal Government announced the launching of a national public consultation process to engage Canadians about their views on choice in dying. A three-member expert panel was appointed to review the findings and report back to Parliament. The speaker will review the legal and political steps that lead to the Supreme Court’s decision and will examine the steps Canadians can take to ensure that the spirit and the wording in the Carter case is implemented in new legislation so, in the future, we can choose how and when we die. Speaker: John Warren Until April of this year, John Warren was Vice President of Dying With Dignity, a 30 year old organization that is committed to help people achieve quality in dying. The organization also help people understand their end-of-life choices and works to improve those choices for all Canadians. Moderator: Robert Campbell Date: Thursday, Sep 10, 2015 Time: Noon - 1:30 PM (30 minutes each for presentation, lunch and Q & A) Location: Country Kitchen Catering (lower level of the Keg) 1715 Mayor Magrath Dr. S Cost: $11.00 (includes lunch) or $2.00 (includes coffee/tea at the presentation)