Health Minister Adrian Dix Releases Statement On Federal Decision To Delay Maid Expansion

Health Minister Adrian Dix says the province is backing the Government of Canada’s decision to delay the proposed policy to expand eligibility criteria for medical assistance in dying to cases where a mental illness is the sole underlying medical condition.

In a statement, Dix says additional safeguards are required to ensure the safe and appropriate delivery of MAiD, “and that all jurisdictions, health authorities, regulators and MAID practitioners have the required time to implement these safeguards.”

He says it’s essential that any expansion of the eligibility criteria for MAiD be done right to fully consider and protect the well-being and rights of all individuals, particularly those living with mental illnesses or disorders.

Dix says the provincial government remains committed to continuing to support practitioners in meeting their legislative requirements and responsibilities, and to enact appropriate guidance and practices in accordance with the MAiD legislative framework.

He assured that officials need to ensure MAiD continues to be available in a safe and compassionate way to those traditionally eligible for it, and anyone who may become eligible for it in the future.

To see the full statement, visit Government of British Columbia.