Parliamentary decorum in this country fell into the mud with a thud when MP James Lunney picked a fight with the highest court in this land (The NEWS, Feb 10).
As a democratic society, we depend on the high court to set precedent and guide our behaviour, in this matter of assisted suicide. Without the court, we might descend from Prime Minister Stephen Harper’s oligarchy to anarchy.
A more statesman-like person would have said he did not agree with the Supreme Court’s decision, but he would have assured Canadians he would respect their decision. But not Lunney. Such is his obeisance to his master, Harper, that he is willing to: 1. defy the rules of parliamentary behaviour; 2. rudely declare the Supreme Court to be wrong; 3. go against the desires of most Canadians by wanting to deny them the right to die with dignity and without endless suffering; 4. throw Canadians into confusion as to their role in this society and their relationship with their government.
At 76, I have had my first heart attack and entered a long period of relentless suffering. This government and Lunney, my MP, would deny me any solace.
I am now convinced, more than ever, that his loyalty is to his party and not to his constituents, no matter what.
Stan GauthierParksville
