Euthanasia submissions sought

WELLINGTON: More than 21,000 people made submissions to the last parliamentary committee inquiry into assisted dying — now people will get another chance.

Act New Zealand leader David Seymour’s End of Life Choices Bill passed its first reading this week, and will be sent to the justice committee.

Chairman Raymond Huo urged people to have their say by February 20.

‘‘We want to hear the public’s view on the Bill so the committee can make informed decisions about whether any changes are needed to improve it,’’ he said.

Mr Seymour’s Bill would give people with terminal illnesses or irremediable medical conditions the chance to end their life through euthanasia or assisted suicide.

Patients would have to meet certain criteria to be eligible and must have their request reviewed by at least two medical practitioners. Other safeguards include allowing patients to withdraw consent at any point.

Over two years Parliament’s health committee sought submissions on public opinions around assisted dying, based on a petition by former Labour MP Maryan Street.

Four in five people who contacted the committee were opposed, but Mr Seymour said polls showed public opinion was about 75% in favour.

Speakers in the first reading debate were largely against the Bill but a silent majority of 7644 ensured its passage to committee stage.

Among those in favour was New Zealand First as a bloc. It is in favour only if it goes to a referendum, something Mr Seymour says he will support.

If the Bill becomes law it is not expected to come into effect until at least early 2019. — NZN