Catholic Union GB 'hugely concerned' about Assisted Dying Bill

Group says proposals are an 'extreme form of assisted suicide'

​The Catholic Union of Great Britain's labelled proposals to allow assisted dying on the Isle of Man as an 'extreme form of assisted suicide'.

The proposed new law would give terminally ill people the right to end their lives.

A public consultation – sparked by a Private Members Bill - which the union responded to has now closed. 

It’s now urging Tynwald members to focus on improving palliative care for people on the Island and making healthcare provision better for the ageing population.

Director Nigel Parker said: "It’s particularly worrying that the law could include people who are not terminally ill. We have seen this happen in Canada and the results are shocking. 

"Proposals to allow people to collect lethal medication over the counter at pharmacies and store it at home are also deeply concerning. Such a law would hugely undermine the dignity of life.

"Given the close ties between the Isle of Man and the UK, any new law would not only have an impact for people living on the island but for people across the British Isles. 

"It is vital that the implications of this decision are properly understood."

Deputy director James Somerville-Meikle says members are 'hugely concerned' and will monitor the outcome closely:

Meanwhile, the Manx group of ‘My Death My Decision’ welcomed the release of the consultation at the time, saying people deserve the right to a dignified death at a time and place of their choosing.