There were several letters to the editor in the July 28 issue that implied that “separation of church and state” somehow means that councillors should not allow their religion to inform their votes. Nothing could be further from the truth.
Separation of church and state means merely that there should not be a government-established church, so that no denomination is given preference over another. Every representative should bring their own views forward whether religiously informed or otherwise.
To paraphrase Thomas More, “when councillors forsake their own private conscience for the sake of their public duties, they lead the country by short route to chaos.”
Regarding medical assistance in dying (MAID), there are many options, including at-home services for anyone who wishes to choose that option. Hospice care should be a safe place where families can care for and attend to their dying relatives without the emotionally charged issue of MAID poisoning that important moment.
As a member of the Delta Hospice Society, I believe we should encourage authentic hospice care, and I applaud council for taking a cautious and considered approach to this issue.
Patrick O’Neil,
Fergus