Canada’s House of Commons has passed a revised Bill, which, if successful, would allow those suffering from mental illness to be killed by euthanasia.

Currently, those over the age of 18 who are suffering “serious and incurable illness, disease or disability” can apply to be killed by euthanasia.

Canada’s most recent suicide Bill, C-7, which amends the current law on euthanasia, passed through the House of Commons earlier this week by a vote of 180-149. If this Bill progresses to be approved by the Senate, it will be permissible to euthanise those suffering from poor mental health.

Disability activists in Canada have been vocal in opposing the moves to broaden euthanasia law, lambasting it as “ableist".

Disability Filibuster, a group which has been active in opposing the C-7 suicide Bill, released a statement condemning the moves. The group said: “Bill C-7 expands Medical Assistance in Dying beyond those who are actually dying, but only for persons with a disabling medical condition.

“The Bill, and its ableist subtext have already been harmful and traumatising for a great many disabled people in Canada.”

SPUC comment

An SPUC spokesperson said: “The speed with which the expansion of sweeping euthanasia laws around the world are being considered and introduced is indeed alarming.

“It is estimated that one in five people will experience poor mental health in their lifetime. It is vital that those suffering know that support and assistance are available to them. They should not be hounded with 'incentives' to die during a time when a lapse in mental judgement could be likely.”