2006 NEW BRUNSWICK ELECTION

STATEMENTS FROM PARTIES / PARTY LEADERS

PROGRESSIVE CONSERVATIVE PARTY / BERNARD LORD (2006 statement)

Abortion
We will maintain the current policy on abortion and continue to respect the Canada Health Act and provide medically necessary services in hospitals, if two doctors certify in writing that the procedure is medically required.

Euthanasia
With respect to euthanasia, we respect the rights of the individual, however, we will not make representations to the federal government for an easing of euthanasia laws.

We will continue to respect the dignity of terminally ill New Brunswickers and provide palliative care in hospitals and through our Extra-Mural Program. Our government has enhanced the support available to patients who require palliative care in their homes.

Conscience Rights
We oppose discrimination on the basis of religious belief, as is prohibited by provincial human rights legislation and the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms.

LIBERAL PARTY / SHAWN GRAHAM

Abortion
The Liberal Party does not foresee any change to the current [abortion] funding practices at the present time.

Euthanasia
This [euthanasia] is a matter of federal jurisdiction. Should the federal government move to ease these laws, provincial Liberal MLAs will be free to speak to the matter according to their personal convictions. The Liberal Party is committed to providing the best possible [palliative] care for all New Brunswickers. We are committed to providing dignity and support for those living with terminal illness.

Conscience Rights
This question touches on a variety of very complex issues respecting personal beliefs of individuals. Similarly should issues of this nature arise before the Legislative Assembly, members of the Liberal caucus will be free to vote according to their own personal belief.

NEW DEMOCATIC PARTY / ALLISON BREWER

Current leader Allison Brewer is a founder of the Morgentaler abortion clinic in Fredericton. She also supports gay marriage. Upon her election as party leader, she adopted a hard line on abortion and gay marriage. She was quoted as stating, "..anyone who thinks that a woman doesn't have a right to choose and anyone who doesn't support equal marriage for Canadians is just wrong. And I won't hear any arguments to the contrary. The environment, the economy, health care, education, all of that stuff, I will listen to diverse opinions beacause I don't have all the answers but when it comes to human rights, I have all the answers and I know what needs to be done" (Telegraph-Journal Sept. 5, 2005) 

The party and its current leader have been militantly pro-abortion and intolerant of pro-life views and the party has been open to the legalization of euthanasia.