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| Last updated at 5:05 PM on 09/07/08 |
Recent news re-igniting an old debate 
The Sackville Tribune Post
Most Canadians, we suspect, would be hardpressed to name five recipients of the Order of Canada.
But for those paying attention to the news this week, it's a safe bet they could name one of the newest members – Dr. Henry Morgentaler, the man who championed women's access to abortion.
It would be hard to imagine a more divisive issue than abortion and, by extension, a figure on the Canadian landscape who would garner such a divergent array of comments as Morgentaler.
Despite resistance across the country, and legal restrictions, the doctor established clinics to provide this much-disputed service.
At one point, Morgentaler went to jail for 10 months after he had at first successfully defended himself regarding the procedure, arguing it was a medical necessity in the cases he had performed. The acquittal was later overturned.
In 1988, the issue went to the Supreme Court of Canada, where ultimately Criminal Code restrictions on access were struck down.
Some would admire such tenacity.
Others are disgusted by it.
To see that this same person has now received an honour given to the country's greatest thinkers, artists and humanitarians will bring protest from groups who carry the 'right to life' banner.
On the other hand, there are those who are saying it's about time such recognition came.
The trouble is, it's a polarizing issue for many and, for others, at the very least a grey area.
Many try to draw a fine line as to when an abortion is acceptable and when it's not.
There’s no doubt, however, that this move will bring the argument - and proponents for both sides - squarely back into the spotlight.
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09/07/08
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