Irish healthcare professionals warn against euthanasia, assisted suicide

Over 2,100 sign statement against proposed law

Sean Murphy*

Over 2,100 Irish healthcare professionals have signed a statement warning against approval of a bill that would legalize euthanasia and assisted suicide in the Republic of Ireland. The statement is on-line and available for other Irish healthcare professionals to sign. Should the bill pass, the signatories and like-minded colleagues who have not signed the statement will find that the recent debate about compelling unwilling physicians to facilitate abortion by referral and other means was a dress rehearsal for demands that they similarly support and facilitate euthanasia and assisted suicide.

The introduction to the statement:

Irish Healthcare Professionals for Dignity in Living and Dying

“We, the undersigned, are gravely concerned by the proposal to legislate for assisted suicide and euthanasia, also described as assisted dying in Ireland. As healthcare professionals we have respect for each individual, value personal autonomy and also share an interest in protecting and advocating for people who are nearing the end of their lives and who may be vulnerable and at risk. We believe the bill creates risks for many receiving healthcare that outweigh any potential benefits.  This concern is based on our collective experience over many decades of providing health care to people and their families in Ireland.”

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