Members of the Euthanasia Prevention Coalition (EPC) are stressing the need to limit medical assistance in dying (MAID).

They’re calling on MPs to support Bill C-218, which would block the expansion of MAID for people suffering solely from mental illness.

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The coalition argues that those with mental disorders requesting MAID do not meet the condition of free and informed consent, because the desire to die in most cases is a symptom of a mental illness.

“People with only a mental disorder will be euthanized as of March 2027. That is next year,” Dr. Paul Saba, a Montreal-based family physician and member of EPC, told 1130 NewsRadio.

“Despite the overwhelming evidence that people with mental disorders can be treated, and that most psychiatrists cannot determine which patient has an irremediable condition, which means an irreversible condition.”

He says that action is needed because Canada is surpassing 100,000 cases of MAID this month.

A colleague of his agrees and says that there are treatments for those struggling with mental health issues, but the government is not doing enough.

“There is a current lack of medical support, such as physicians, psychologists, and social workers. There is a lack of psychiatric support and long waiting lists to begin assessment,” said Dr. Peter Blusanovics, a physician at a Montreal psychiatric hospital.

A second-reading vote on Bill C-218, which was originally introduced by Conservative MP Tamara Jansen, is expected in mid-April 2026.

— With files from Raynaldo Suarez.