Canada Delays Expansion of Medical Assistance in Dying to Cover Mental Illness

Health Minister Mark Holland cites need for more time to prepare health-care system, amidst concerns from opposition parties and public.

Canada's federal government is seeking another delay on the expansion of Medical Assistance in Dying (MAID) to cover those suffering solely from mental illnesses.
The delay marks the second time the government has sought to postpone the expansion since the Superior Court of Quebec struck down the original 2016 MAID legislation.
A special committee of MPs and senators concluded that Canada is not ready for such an expansion, citing a lack of trained practitioners and readiness in the health-care system.
Health Minister Mark Holland did not provide a specific timeline for the delay, stating that more time is needed to ensure the system is ready.
Opposition parties and some members of the public have expressed concerns about the expansion, calling for improvements in mental health care before assisted suicide is considered.