Social workers in British Columbia removed three babies after the parents refused to allow their children to undergo blood transfusions on religious grounds (they are Jehovah's Witnesses). They have since sued the B.C. government claiming provincial authorities had no right to intervene in this matter.
The family had sextuplets in January, Canada's first, and two of the six children died soon after their premature birth at 25 weeks gestation. The blood transfusions are forbidden in Jehovah's Witness religious practice, even in times of medical emergency. After their babies were removed from their custody, the parents attempted to request a hearing, which was denied. The babies were returned to their parent's custody after receiving transfusions and remain in good condition.
It is well established that plenty of people make poor judgments as parents, even life endangering ones. The Canadian government effectively argues that the well-being of the child trumps parental beliefs and decisions. And I tend to agree.
