The Government of Canada wants to delay giving the green light to implementing medical assistance in dying for people whose sole medical condition is a mental illness.

That provision was going to be implemented March 17, 2023.

In a joint statement the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada, the Minister of Health and Minister of Mental Health and Addictions said, among other things, they want more time to consider the final report of the Special Joint Committee on MAID, which is expected in February 2023.

They say the federal government is going to work with the other parties in the House of Commons and with the Senate to negotiate an extension of the eligibility date.

Last month, Veterans Affairs Minister Lawrence MacAulay confirmed that Veterans Affairs Canada was aware of four instances of medical assistance in dying (MAID) being offered to veterans of the Canadian Forces by one employee. In further media reports the veterans involved say they did not request the option.