By Tim Waggoner
TORONTO, July 10, 2008 (LifeSiteNews.com) – Ontario’s Catholic premier has come out in support of the decision to grant Henry Morgentaler the Order of Canada.
The National Post reports that McGuinty is aware that Morgentaler’s actions are “controversial” among Canadians, but maintained that the appointment recognizes the abortionist’s fight to give women the right to make hard choices.
“I know that Dr. Morgentaler’s been seen as a controversial figure, but I believe in a woman’s right to make a very difficult decision,” McGuinty said.
The Ontario premier said he feels the appointment is justified – though he admits it has divided the nation – because the “right” of a mother to kill her baby is “important.”
“And if she makes that difficult decision and chooses to have an abortion, I want her to be able to do that in a way that’s safe, in a way that’s publicly funded. So I know it’s divisive, but I think it’s important,” added the premier.
Already 22 MPs, countless Canadians, and the leaders of several major religions have condemned the divisive decision announced by the Governor General Michaelle Jean on Canada’s Day.
The Chief Justice of the Supreme Court Beverley McLachlin, who heads the Advisory Council responsible for the decision, is under severe criticism for “brutishly” awarding Morgentaler the Order of Canada, despite dissent from several advisory board members and a significant percentage of the Canadian public.
A number of previous recipients of Canada’s highest civilian decoration have already returned their awards, not wishing to associate themselves in any way with Morgentaler.
Please see related LifeSiteNews coverage for related coverage:
Former Lieutenant Governor of New Brunswick and Others Return Order of Canada
https://www.lifesitenews.com/ldn/2008/jul/08070902.html
21 MPs and Counting Publicly Voice Disgust at Morgentaler’s Appointment to Order of Canada
https://www.lifesitenews.com/ldn/2008/jul/08071001.html
Prominent North American Rabbi Condemns “DisOrder of Canada” Award to Abortionist
https://www.lifesitenews.com/ldn/2008/jul/08070903.html