EDITOR:
When society is not ready to support a child throughout its life, reaching 18 years of age, then one should not expect a woman to carry an unwanted fetus to full term. There are many reasons why one would not want to have a pregnancy continue, one of which is support. A single mom on social assistance gets enough to provide only the very basics needed to feed and clothe the baby. As that child grows, there are more basic needs required but there are also the social needs. Many of these cost money and presently our society is not willing to provide that support. In addition to education along the way to adulthood, there are many activities that require money, drives, equipment and time. So until society is willing to make sure all children receive the support that allows them to live in a safe home, have enough nutritious food every day, be clothed and able to participate in activities he or she wants until they reach adulthood; then I see one of the reasons why women have the right to choose, and I am glad they have that right.
Leah-Jane Hayward,
President of the New Democratic Party of P.E.I.
