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RCMP Veterans Group in Nova Scotia Advertises MAiD Talk to Retirees, Draws Criticism

A leaked email naming Nova Scotia Health’s MAiD lead as the speaker has raised concerns about pressure on vulnerable veterans.

Overview

  • The Nova Scotia branch of the RCMP Veterans Association promoted a free, public information session on Medical Assistance in Dying scheduled for Saturday from 1:30 to 3:00 p.m. at Saint John the Evangelist Church Parish in Dartmouth.
  • Dr. Gordon Gubitz, identified as Nova Scotia Health’s MAiD clinical lead and a board member of the Canadian Association of MAiD Assessors and Providers, was listed as the presenter with a question-and-answer period to follow.
  • Veteran advocate Kelsi Sheren published the leaked invite and condemned the session as coercive for a community with high rates of trauma and suicidality.
  • A 32-year RCMP veteran who leaked the email said he was deeply disturbed by the invitation, and another retired member expressed worry that such seminars target vulnerable veterans.
  • The Nova Scotia RCMP Veterans Association had not responded to requests for comment, and Sheren urged the public to attend and question why MAiD is being presented to veterans.