Judge dismisses application for judicial review of P.E.I.s abortion policy

CHARLOTTETOWN – A provincial supreme court judge ruled an applicant has no legal standing to seek a judicial review of Prince Edward Island’s abortion policy and laws.

Justice Nancy Key told Kevin Arsenault during a hearing in Charlottetown on Monday that there must be a larger public interest than his personal objection to abortion.

Arsenault argued abortions are not medically required and submitted that the province is “acting outside its statutory authority.’’

Government lawyer Robert MacNevin told the court that unborn fetuses have no legal standing in Canada.

Outside court Arsenault said he was disappointed by the judge’s ruling, adding that he believes the law is on his side.

In March, the P.E.I. government announced it would no longer be the only province in Canada where women do not have access to in-province abortion services.

(Charlottetown Guardian)