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This is a translation of a letter written in French to the Governor General, by the Most Rev. Valéry Vienneau, Catholic bishop of Bathurst NB. Bishop Vienneau has also called upon all of his faithful to express their views, and has asked the priests of his diocese to bring this matter up at the weekend masses on July 12-13.
 
Peter Ryan
 

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July 8, 2008

 

Her Excellency, the Very Honorable Michaëlle Jean

Rideau Hall

1 Sussex Drive

Ottawa, ON  K1A 0A1

 

Madame the Very Honorable Michaëlle Jean,

Governor General of Canada,

 

 

I am writing to you to express my profound disappointment and my total disagreement with regards to the awarding of the Order of Canada to Mr Henry Morgentaler.   I have often questioned how we can continue to address Henry Morgentaler as “doctor” or “physician”, he who has dishonored the medical profession by fighting so relentlessly against life, in favor of abortion.

The Order of Canada is a badge of honor for generously and truly contributing to the well-being and the common good of one’s fellow citizens.  Contrarily, Mr Morgentaler has consistently sown controversy and discord, and has, on many occasions, broken the laws of our country.  Therefore, how does one “dare” to propose to Canadians that they distinguish, with an honor such as the Order of Canada, a person so often the cause of antagonism and conflict?  It seems that he has even provoked discord among the members of the selection committee who were unable to make a unanimous recommendation.

Madame Governor General of Canada, I beseech you to reconsider the nomination and revoke, as quickly as possible, the decision to accord to Mr Morgentaler the highest civil distinction in Canada.  He has not brought one legitimate contribution to the community but rather caused death, directly or indirectly, to thousands of unborn children. The hearts of millions of Canadians have been wounded by this nomination which discredits the Order of Canada by bestowing this honor to such a controversial figure who leaves no one indifferent.

Notwithstanding this very delicate situation, I wish you a wonderful and restful summer.  I thank you for the attention that you will give to this request and I ask Your Excellency to accept my most respectful sentiments.

 

_______________________________________

Most Reverend Valéry Vienneau

Roman Catholic Bishop of the Diocese of Bathurst