Quebec's assisted dying law will inspire other provinces, supporters say

Now that the right to die is enshrined in Quebec, supporters of assisted dying are hoping other provinces will follow its lead.

"I think they could take a leaf out of Quebec's book and create legislation that issimilarly patient-centric," said Wanda Morris, CEO of the non-profit Dying with Dignity Canada. Her group has been advocating for this kind of law since the early 80s.

On Tuesday, the Quebec Court of Appeal overturned aDec. 1 Quebec Superior Court judgment thatsuspendedthe province's law, Bill 52, until certain provisions of the Criminal Code were changed.

• Quebec's top court rules assisted dying law can go ahead
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In the ruling, the Court of Appeal said the Quebec law doesn't contravene sections of the federalCriminal Code related to assisted dying because they were struck down by Canada's Supreme Court last February.

"What an amazing day that a province in Canada would have the compassion to offer this option of a peaceful death," Morris said.

Supreme Court decision puts pressure on feds

People like Morris are optimistic other provinces will follow suit. A Supreme Court decision in February said doctors should be allowed to help terminal patients die in specific situations.

The federal government has asked for the original deadline to be extended untilAugust, so it cancome up with a new law that recognizes the right to assisted dying.

"We recognize the leadership that Quebec has demonstrated in developing its own legislation on physician-assisted dying," federal Justice Minister Jody Wilson-Raybouldsaid in a statement.

"We will continue to work with Quebec, as well as the other provinces and territories, to develop a coordinated approach to physician-assisted dying across the country."

Quebec MNA Vronique Hivon, who co-authored Bill 52, believes the provincewill provide an example for the entire country.

"We see that we're really seen as a leader. Other provinces, even the federal government, are really consulting with Quebec," she said.

• College of Physicians releases assisted suicide guidelines

Health Minister Gatan Barrette has some advice of his own to offer to other provinces taking on the issue: expect debate.

"There will never be unanimity on an issue like this. It's impossible," Barrette said.