Press Release 4 September 2020
Mike Gaffney must respond to these serious concerns –
Author of the voluntary assisted suicide bill, Mike Gaffney, has today confirmed that it could be extended to include children in two years’ time.
Live and Die Well spokesperson, Ben Smith said this is a shocking confirmation from Mr Gaffney.
“In a society where we spend millions of dollars each year attempting to save lives through suicide prevention, it is shocking to think that we now have the potential for voluntary assisted suicide to be introduced for children.”
Mr Gaffney was quoted in The Advocate and The Examiner today stating two years after the bill is passed, ‘if the review found it should be extended (to people under 18), it would only be available in exceptional circumstances,’
“Exceptional circumstances or not, it is simply horrifying to think that in some way, children would be euthanised in a modern society,” Mr Smith said.
“This is the thin end of the wedge and is further confirmation this bill simply goes too far.”
“By arguing that children can be euthanised, Mr Gaffney is again highlighting that this legislation is a mess and while many may agree with the principal of voluntary assisted suicide, when confronted with the detail it becomes clear that it is unworkable and has little protection for the vulnerable,” Mr Smith said.
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For further information: Ben Smith 0410 691 371
www.livendiewell.org
