To Mr. Thomas Mulcair, M.P. Leader of Her Majesty’s Loyal Opposition,
Dear Mr. Mulcair,
As opposition leader in this great democracy, you should welcome open debate in Parliament. On the topic of abortion, the position you hold is in conflict with the majority of Canadians, is out of step with every other civilized nation, and defies directions from the highest court in the land.
Your comments in the foyer of the House of Commons last week Thursday have left Canadians completely perplexed. On one hand you lament Mr. Harper’s control, and then on the other you want him to exercise more control. Unfortunately, Mr. Mulcair, you can’t have it both ways simply because you don’t agree with the subject up for debate.
Your emphatic denouncement of even the minutest debate on the topic of abortion is completely contrary to basic principles of democracy. Canadians, as well as prominent journalists such as Andrew Coyne, are increasingly perplexed as they openly opine about the absence of reason and civilized debate in this country.
You must certainly be aware, Mr. Mulcair, that the majority of Canadians want some restrictions on abortion. You must be aware that most Canadians believe that aborting a fetus, simply because it is a girl, is repugnant. You must know that most Canadians, including Dr. Henry Morgentaler, find it morally unacceptable that a foetus can be aborted, for any reason, in the third trimester.
Mr. Mulcair, Canada is the only democracy that refuses to provide some protection for children in the womb. Canada, along with North Korea and China, are the only countries in the world that do not recognize the rights of the foetus at any point during the pregnancy.
The position you have taken goes against that of the highest court in the land. The Supreme Court decision in R. v. Morgentaler (1988) is saturated with references to Parliament’s duty and legitimate interest in protecting the foetus. Chief Justice Dickson said, “I agree [with Justice Beetz and Wilson] that protection of foetal interests by Parliament is also a valid governmental objective. It follows that balancing these interests, with the lives and health of women a major factor, is clearly an important governmental objective.” (emphasis added)
The time has come, Mr. Mulcair, for government to make these decisions. The people are speaking, the courts have spoken, and Canada sits in the embarrassingly ridiculous position as the only democracy with no law protecting the rights of the foetus.
Your party name speaks to the democratic values that our nation holds dear. When it comes to abortion, Canada has stated time and time again that we want a law. We are looking for you to show the leadership that is in keeping with your party name.
Sincerely,
Mike Schouten
Campaign Director, weneedaLAW.ca
(A similar letter has been sent to Right Honourable Stephen Harper, P.C., M.P. Prime Minister of Canada)