The transcript for this witness testimony is currently in production by our volunteers. It will be available soon here on this page and as a downloadable PDF.

Summary

Richard Durr testifies about Canada’s abortion framework and its lack of meaningful safeguards. He presents evidence from Alberta health data showing 28 live births following abortion procedures in 2023-2024, directly contradicting Minister Adriana Lagrange’s denial that such events occur. He explains that Canada is the only nation with no abortion law, no gestational limits, and no statutory protections for the unborn. The testimony reveals Alberta Health Services policy PS92 acknowledges the possibility of live births after late-term abortions and recommends Do Not Resuscitate orders. Durr cites a Quebec study showing 11% of second-trimester abortions result in live births, rising to 25% at 21-23 weeks. He discusses the risks of telemedicine abortion pills, which can be obtained without physical examination or ultrasound verification. The mature minor doctrine in Alberta allows minors to obtain abortions without parental knowledge if deemed capable of consent. He highlights how this system enables human trafficking by allowing predators to hide evidence of abuse. Durr emphasizes that the same legal vacuum endangering infants also puts women and minors at risk through lack of proper medical oversight and parental involvement.

Credentials

Richard Durr has served as the Executive Director of Pro Life Alberta since May 2017, where he has established himself as a dedicated researcher and advocate on life and healthcare issues. His work encompasses comprehensive policy research, data analysis, and advocacy efforts focused on protecting vulnerable populations. Throughout his tenure, he has authored numerous policy briefs that have contributed to public discourse on healthcare matters. His analytical approach involves reviewing firsthand Alberta health data and official correspondence, ensuring his perspectives are grounded in verifiable documentation rather than assumptions.

Richard Durr serves as Executive Director of Pro Life Alberta since 2017, bringing extensive experience in policy research and healthcare advocacy. He presents evidence that 28 infants were born alive following abortion procedures in Alberta during 2023-2024, contradicting official denials. He demonstrates how Canada’s lack of abortion laws creates vulnerabilities for infants, women, and minors. His testimony reveals systemic gaps in oversight, including telemedicine abortion pills without proper medical examination and minors accessing abortion without parental knowledge. His methodical research approach, focusing on documented evidence from within Alberta’s healthcare system, enables him to present fact-based analyses of these critical healthcare issues.