VOLUNTARY EUTHANASIA BILL TO BE DEBATED THIS WEDNESDAY

www.tas.greens.org.au
Tasmanian Greens Leader Nick McKim MP today confirmed that the Dying With Dignity Bill 2009 will be debated by the House of Assembly this Wednesday, with over four hours set aside to provide all MPs to have a chance to put their views on the record.

Mr McKim said that his Private Members’ Bill seeks to provide dying Tasmanians with the protection that living Tasmanians currently have under state law.

“The law currently protects us when we’re alive, and this debate will allow MPs the opportunity to ensure that it protects us when we are dying,” Mr McKim said.

“This Bill is based on the values of compassion and respect for human dignity. That’s why it is overwhelmingly supported by Tasmanians, and Wednesday’s debate gives all MPs the chance to show they are in line with community sentiments on this issue.”

“The Dying With Dignity Bill seeks to regulate a practice which is currently occurring in an unregulated framework, and will increase protection for vulnerable Tasmanians.”

Mr McKim thanked Leader of Government Business David Llewellyn, and Opposition Whip Brett Whitely, as well as all MPs in the House of Assembly for allowing sufficient time for the debate to occur.

The Dying with Dignity Bill debate is expected to commence at 3:45pm this Wednesday the 4th of October.
Nick McKim MP Greens Leader