New Brunswick ends automatic coroner investigations of assisted suicides

New Brunswick is introducing legislation to end mandatory coroners’ investigations in assisted suicides.

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Justice Minister Denis Landry says the modernization of the Coroners Act means families who are already facing a difficult time won’t in most cases be forced to undergo investigations.

The province says proposed amendments to the act would ensure that medically assisted deaths are not reported to the coroner unless there are irregularities or special circumstances that warrant investigation.

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It says the proposed changes would eliminate the current need for coroners to investigate what is, under federal legislation, a medical procedure.

The province’s coroner service is an independent agency that reviews all suspicious or questionable deaths and conducts inquests.