April 22, 2010
Benoit votes “No” to bloc Québécois Euthanasia Bill
Benoit said he was pleased that a large majority of MPs voted against the bill, defeating the legislation. 228 MPs voted against Bill C-384, compared to 59 who voted in favour of the bill.
“I have received hundreds of letters, emails and postcards from constituents who are very concerned about the implications of Bill C-384” explained Benoit. “This bill is strongly opposed by many of my constituents, and I had stated I would vote against the bill when it came to a vote in the House of Commons. Yesterday I did so.”
“I would like to point out that assisting or counselling another person to commit suicide is a criminal offence in Canada, carrying a maximum sentence of up to 14 years in prison” said Benoit. He added that Ms. Lalonde brought private member’s bills similar to Bill C-384 before Parliament in previous sessions. “I remain very concerned about protecting the aged, the disabled or other vulnerable people who could be at risk by a repeal of the present prohibitions against assisted suicide.”
“I would like to thank all my constituents who contacted me with their views on Bill C-384” concluded Benoit. “I was proud to stand up and voice your views by voting against the legalization of euthanasia in Canada.”
