The Committee made it abundantly clear that euthanasia was a bad idea. Amongst its comments, it found that "the codification of voluntary euthanasia legislation could not adequately provide the necessary safeguards against abuse." (CLICK HERE to download the Report)
Since that time, the bill sponsored by Greens leader, Nick McKim MP was rejected by the Tasmanian Parliament in late 2009 by a margin of 15 to 7 in the Lower House; this following a bill-specific inquiry and report that echoed the 1998 committee findings. (CLICK HERE for Report)
The State Election in March 2010 resulted in a Labor/Green alliance to form government. With the majority of pro-euthanasia bills across the country sponsored by Greens MPs, such an alliance, no doubt, gives the Greens' political agenda more focus.
Attorney-General, and now Premier, Lara Giddings has made it clear that she supports euthanasia legislation and has flagged the introduction of a new bill sometime in 2011. She has correctly observed that some of those who, by their vote, contributed to the defeat of the McKim Bill are no longer in Parliament. Whether this reality shifts support towards euthanasia is yet to be seen.
Please take the time to make sure your MPs hear a clear voice in opposition to euthanasia. The documents attached below will help.
HOPE brochure TAS 2011 — copy and pass on to your friends!
Tasmanian 1998 Committee Report in brief — provides some additional ideas for your letters!
Members of Parliament Contact details (Lower House) — contact your local MPs today!
BLOG Comment: Safeguards: the Precautionary Principle and the Tasmanian Premier