Sask. health minister pens letter to feds outlining opposition of MAID expansion

Saskatchewan Legislative Building in Regina, on Monday, November 17, 2025. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Heywood Yu

Saskatchewan’s health minister has written a letter to his federal counterparts, outlining his government’s opposition to the proposed expansion of MAID to those with mental illness as the sole underlying condition.

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In a post to X on Tuesday, Health Minister Jeremy Cockrill shared the letter, which formally advised the federal government and the Special Joint Committee on Medical Assistance In Dying (MAID) of the provincial government’s stance.

“The priority of the Saskatchewan MAID program has always been patient well-being and safety, while also respecting the wishes and personal convictions of patients, families, and health-care providers,” the letter read.

The letter comes as a parliamentary committee studying medical assistance in dying for people with mental illness prepares to deliver its report to parliament on Wednesday.

Earlier this week, Federal Justice Minister and Attorney General Sean Fraser said he’s not ruling anything out ahead of the committee’s report.

“I think my own view is — informed by personal circumstances — is that we have to maintain an open mind for experiences that may not be widespread,” Fraser said during CTV Power Play on Tuesday.

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Cockrill’s letter said Saskatchewan is committed to protecting vulnerable people and making sure those who suffer from mental illness receive the care and support they need.

“Mental health care, suicide prevention, and support for vulnerable individuals are high priorities for our government,” the letter stated, while referring to the investments that have been made.

According to Cockrill’s letter, Saskatchewan has previously urged the federal government to pause the expansion of MAID eligibility to mental illness, noting the expansion fails to consider the complexity of mental illness cases.

With files from The Canadian Press and Spencer Van Dyk