The people who advocate euthanasia and assisted suicide believe they are acting out of compassion, but a close look at this issue reveals that legislation could have the opposite effect if it is abused.

None of us wants to foster anguish in friends and loved ones whose health is deteriorating, but there are real measures that can be taken to assist them in their hours of need. Canada has extensive programs that provide palliative care and pain management that have helped to ease thousands of people through a difficult time – and sometimes to recovery. Professionals in health and other fields have become very adept at lending medicinal, psychological and spiritual comfort when it is needed most.

Private Members’ Bill C-384 was introduced into the House of Commons with the intention of allowing people to orchestrate their death, but it is naïve to imagine it would never be abused. Unfortunately, we live in a world with a few people who are dishonest opportunists. Those of us who draft and vote on legislation are always vigilant not to support a new law that could be turned against society.

This bill would give a person the right to decide for themselves when they want to die. When a society is encouraged to determine the tipping point between life and death, the spectre of human nature cannot be ignored. The compassion most of us envision can be displaced by greed and ulterior motives that victimize the elderly, the ill and the weak. The risk is simply too great.

I was pleased that the Minister of Justice assured me personally that the Conservative government would not be contemplating legislation to legalize euthanasia or assisted suicide. It is an utter shame that elder abuse is escalating. In too many cases, the perpetrators are family members and acquaintances who would profit from prematurely ending the life of an elder relative. And sadly, there are seniors who might acquiesce, rather than continue to live in a situation that has grown intolerable.

Fortunately, we have other mechanisms to deal with elder abuse. We need laws that protect our seniors, rather than enabling those who would use this legislative tool to truncate their natural life. It’s hard to believe that there are people who are sufficiently despicable to hasten their inheritance by using a new law to enhance their personal wealth. But because there are, this government is safeguarding the elderly, the mentally ill, and those with failing health. We will continue to provide health care and other services to those who seek comfort and dignity for as long as it is required.

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The audio version of Garry's October 19, 2009 op-ed column can be heard by clicking here