Thread. It’s the feast of #AllSouls where we remember those who've passed on and pray for them. I’d also like to remember the living. I don’t “thread” often but wanted to say a few words about euthanasia or as the gov’t calls it, medical assistance in dying(MAID). #cdnpoli 1/10

Regardless of where you stand on assisted death, can we agree that the lack of palliative care in Canada is a serious problem? Only 30% of our citizens have access to end of life care – studies show that those dying fear a) pain and b) loneliness more than anything. #cdnpoli 2/10

Palliative care addresses both issues. If the time, $$ and energy put into assisted death were channeled to palliative care, it would be a game changer for those suffering. Gov’ts of all stripes have said this would be a priority since 2010. We’re still waiting. #cdnpoli 3/10

Parliament is reviewing Bill C-7 (medical assistance in dying) with proposed changes that should cause concern. If passed, it will actually be easier to die than getting a gym membership or buying a house (no cooling off period). For real. #cdnpoli 4/10

That’s why more than 50 diverse religious leaders across the country put out this letter, "We Can and Must do Much Better" https://www.archtoronto.org/euthanasia/Documents/MAID_Religious%20Leaders%20in%20Canada%20oppose%20Bill%20C-7_EN%20Final.pdf

#cdnpoli 5/10

Some like to dismiss religious voices – all right then, maybe you should read the statement from 800 Canadian doctors expressing grave concern about where this legislation (Bill C-7) is leading us. Here’s what they wrote - From MAID to MAD: https://maid2mad.ca/  #cdnpoli 6/10

Don’t want to take a medical opinion? Then maybe the statement from 150 lawyers would convince you that we should be careful about what’s being proposed. Here's what they said: https://www.christianlegalfellowship.org/billc-7 
#cdnpoli 7/10

None of these people are vulnerable? Okay, how about we hear the concerns of 100 disability advocates who are worried that the slippery slope will lead to them being seen as a burden to society and compelled to consider assisted death. https://www.archtoronto.org/euthanasia/Documents/Statement%20from%20group%20of%20disability%20advocates%20-%20Bill%20C-7%20-%20EN.pdf #cdnpoli 8/10

I’d encourage journalists who follow me to talk to any of these groups or share with others. The pandemic has highlighted the vulnerable and isolated. Yes, talking about death is uncomfortable but surely we should be having the conversation. #cdnpoli 9/10

For those concerned, you can visit http://helptheliving.ca  and write to your MP – or better yet call them and have a respectful conversation. And yes, there are lots of views on the topic but let's all agree, it really is a matter of life and death. #cdnpoli 10/10