On January 17, the Irish Times reports that the new Dáil is soon to sit and one of its priorities is the consideration of Voluntary Assisted Dying (VAD). A special Dáil committee is to be convened to examine the issue, with meetings to take place throughout the year.
The topic garnered political momentum previously after a Bill from Solidarity TD Gino Kenny, which sought to allow for the provision of assisted dying to those suffering from a terminal illness with the aim of allowing them to have a dignified and peaceful death.
The committee is to consider the issue and make recommendations for legislative and/or policy changes in relation to a statutory right to assist a person to end their life, and a statutory right to receive such assistance. The terms of reference have been agreed and nine TDs and five Senators are to be selected to sit on the committee.
Last year, our member End of Life Ireland delivered a petition supporting “the right to die with dignity” at Leinster House, with almost 5,000 signatures calling for urgent action on introducing end-of-life legislation to Ireland.
Ireland