Branden Leslie Advocates for Mental Health Over MAID in Manitoba

Branden Leslie, the Member of Parliament for Portage–Lisgar, has raised concerns about the federal government’s approach to mental health care in rural Canada. During a recent session in Parliament, he expressed his belief that rural Canadians face significant barriers when accessing mental health services, and he criticized the government for offering Medical Assistance in Dying (MAID) as an option for those struggling with mental illness.

Leslie seconded Bill C-218, known as the Right to Recover Act, which aims to amend the Criminal Code to prevent mental illness from being the sole basis for eligibility under Canada’s MAID law. He emphasized the urgent need for improved mental health resources rather than expanding assisted death options.

Challenges in Accessing Mental Health Services

Leslie highlighted the struggles faced by individuals in his southern Manitoba riding. He noted that many communities lack timely access to mental health and addiction support, with wait times extending for weeks or even months. “Families fight tooth and nail to get their loved ones the help they need,” he stated. “And instead of fixing this broken system, the Liberal government has opened the door to MAID for mental illness.”

In rural areas, accessing treatment often involves long drives and navigating a fragmented system of services, which leaves those in crisis feeling isolated and unsupported. Leslie argued that offering assisted death during a mental health crisis is not a compassionate response but rather a sign of failure to provide the necessary help and hope.

His concerns echo sentiments from medical leaders. The Society of Canadian Psychiatry has warned against labeling mental illnesses as “irremediable,” pointing out that many individuals improve significantly when appropriate care and support are available.

Legislative Push and Future Implications

Tamara Jansen, the sponsor of Bill C-218, has also voiced objections to the expansion of MAID. She cautioned that without the bill’s passage, Canadians suffering solely from mental illness could seek assisted death as early as March 17, 2027. Jansen framed her legislation as a necessary measure to combat the “abandonment” of individuals in mental health crises.

Leslie further argued that instead of expanding MAID, the federal government should focus on addressing the lack of mental health resources, particularly in rural regions. “Canadians deserve better treatment options, better suicide prevention strategies, and better access to supports,” he remarked. “We should be offering people a future, not a way out.”

If approved, Bill C-218 would ensure that mental illness cannot be the sole reason for accessing MAID, protecting vulnerable individuals who may otherwise slip through the cracks of an inadequate health system. “I believe recovery is possible. I believe every Canadian life has value,” Leslie asserted. “No Canadian should ever be told by their government that their life is not worth fighting for.”

While Leslie and Jansen advocate for the bill, opponents argue that patient autonomy and fairness must also be considered. Some suggest taking a cautious approach: delaying any expansion of MAID until the mental health system is adequately prepared, implementing rigorous safeguards, and strengthening mental health services first.

The debate surrounding MAID and mental health continues to intensify, reflecting broader societal challenges in providing sufficient mental health care. As legislation moves through Parliament, the outcome will have significant implications for many Canadians facing mental health struggles.