Proceedings of the Standing Senate Committee on
Social Affairs, Science and Technology

Issue 22 - Minutes of Proceedings

OTTAWA, Wednesday, May 9, 2007
(33)

[English]

The Standing Senate Committee on Social Affairs, Science and Technology met at 4:12 p.m., this day, in room 705, Victoria Building, the Chair, the Honourable Art Eggleton, P.C. presiding.

Members of the committee present: The Honourable Senators Callbeck, Cochrane, Cook, Cordy, Eggleton, P.C., Fairbairn, P.C., Keon, Munson, Pépin, Nancy Ruth and Trenholme Counsell (11).

Other senator present: The Honourable Senator Di Nino (1).

In attendance: From the Library of Parliament Research Branch: Robin MacKay, Research Analyst, Law and Government Division.

Pursuant to the Order of Reference adopted by the Senate on Thursday, April 19, 2007 the committee began its examination of Bill C-252, to amend the Divorce Act (access to spouse who is terminally ill or in critical condition).

WITNESSES:

Senate of Canada:

The Honourable Senator Consiglio Di Nino, sponsor of the Bill.

House of Commons:

Rick Casson, M.P., sponsor of the bill.

Department of Justice Canada:

Lise Lafrenière-Henrie, Senior Counsel, Family Law Policy;

Claire Farid, Counsel, Family Law Policy.

Senator Di Nino and Mr. Casson made opening statements and responded to questions.

Ms Farid made an opening statement and, with Ms Lafrenière-Henrie, responded to questions.

It was agreed that the committee move to clause-by-clause consideration of Bill C-252, to amend the Divorce Act (access for spouse who is terminally ill or in critical condition).

It was agreed that the title stand postponed.

It was agreed that clause 1 carry.

It was agreed that the title carry.

It was agreed that the bill carry, on division.

It was agreed that the Chair report the bill without amendment.

At 5:22 p.m., it was agreed that the committee adjourn to the call of the Chair.

ATTEST:

Barbara Reynolds

Clerk of the Committee