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Assisted dying legislation needs significant change says watchdog

Wednesday, 3 February 2021 10:45

Ireland's human rights watchdog says proposed legislation for assisted dying "needs significant change".

The Irish Human Rights and Equality Commission says the 'Dying with Dignity Bill' falls short when it comes to issues like safeguarding and consent.

The bill, which's currently going through the Oireachtas, would allow a person with a terminal illness seek medical help to end their life.

Chief Commissioner at the I-H-R-E-C, Sinead Gibney, says it has concerns with the legislation in its current form.

"One of the first things that we want to call out, and we do so in our recommendation, is that a broader piece of legislation could look at the broader concept of dying with dignity.

"That would included for example issues around palliative care, and independent living.

"Some of the other concerns that we would have around for example assisted decision making.

"Unfortunately the supports are not there for people at the moment to engage properly and engage in decision making properly for everybody to do that."

 

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