Morning Report: David Seymour on euthanasia bill

Summary

David Seymour, MP and sponsor of the End-of-Life Choice bill, advocates for legalizing assisted dying for those with terminal illnesses, arguing that the current law forces people to suffer unnecessarily. While his proposal has gained significant public support, critics like Bill English and Maggie Barry warn that it could erode the fundamental legal principle of protecting life and expose vulnerable people to abuse. Cultural concerns, particularly from Māori communities, and the inclusion of a public referendum further complicate the debate. The bill is progressing to a select committee for further review, with key discussions about safeguards and ethical considerations still unfolding.

Takeaways

• 😀 David Seymour proposes the End of Life Choice Bill, which would allow individuals with terminal illnesses the option of assisted dying.
• 😀 Seymour argues that the current law is flawed, allowing suffering and violent suicides but not giving individuals the choice to die with dignity under legal safeguards.
• 😀 Nationals leader Bill English opposes the bill, emphasizing the core legal principle of prohibiting the taking of life, which he sees as essential for protecting vulnerable people.
• 😀 Labour's Lewis Awal references the case of Lucretia Seals, a woman who fought for the right to die on her terms, to support the need for the bill.
• 😀 The bill includes a provision for a public referendum, which Seymour believes will give New Zealanders a final say on the matter, ensuring wider support.
• 😀 New Zealand First's Tracy Martin highlights the importance of a referendum, stating that the people, not politicians, should decide on such a critical issue.
• 😀 National's opposition includes concerns about the potential for abuse, particularly of the elderly, as they fear the bill could enable exploitation of vulnerable people.
• 😀 Seymour argues that the law could be crafted to give choice to those who want it while ensuring protection for those who don't wish to participate.
• 😀 The bill specifically excludes mental illness as a qualifying condition for assisted dying, requiring individuals to be of sound mind and have a terminal or grievous, untreatable condition.
• 😀 Similar laws have been implemented worldwide, including in countries like Belgium, the Netherlands, Canada, and several U.S. states, making such legislation increasingly normalized.

Q & A

What is the purpose of the End-of-Life Choice Bill as discussed by David Seymour?

The End-of-Life Choice Bill aims to allow individuals with a terminal illness the option of assisted dying. David Seymour argues that the current law does not work and that people should have the right to make their own choices regarding end-of-life decisions, rather than enduring unnecessary suffering.

What does Bill English argue about the End-of-Life Choice Bill?

Bill English opposes the bill, stating that it would undermine a core principle of the law: the prohibition on taking another person's life. He emphasizes that lawmakers' role is to protect vulnerable individuals and maintain laws that safeguard society.

How does David Seymour justify the need for this bill in terms of personal choice?

David Seymour justifies the bill by emphasizing that the current situation allows violent and barbaric suicides to occur legally, but denies the individual who is suffering the right to make a choice about their own end-of-life decisions. He advocates for a law that safeguards this choice.

Why is the case of Lucretia Seales cited by Lewis Awat?

Lewis Awat cites the case of Lucretia Seales to support the bill, pointing out that she fought and lost a legal battle for the right to die on her own terms. The case highlights the risks of intolerable suffering under the current law, which Judge Collins deemed undesirable.

What is the stance of New Zealand First regarding the bill?

New Zealand First, through Tracy Martin, supports a public referendum on the issue. They argue that the decision on assisted dying should be made by the public, as the lawmakers are no wiser or more moral than the citizens who elected them.

What are the concerns of the National Party regarding the bill?

The National Party, through Maggie Barry, expresses concerns that the bill would make the elderly more vulnerable to abuse. They argue that the legislation lacks sufficient protections and safeguards, which could lead to exploitation of vulnerable individuals.

How does David Seymour respond to concerns about euthanasia being 'foreign to Maori'?

David Seymour disagrees with the argument that assisted dying is 'foreign to Maori,' noting that cultural and spiritual perspectives should not infringe on the right of individuals to make decisions about their own lives. He respects various viewpoints but stresses the importance of personal choice.

What is the key argument from Maggie Barry regarding the potential risks of the bill?

Maggie Barry warns that the bill could leave elderly individuals vulnerable to abuse, with insufficient safeguards to protect them. She believes the bill would enable exploitation, particularly targeting those who are vulnerable and unable to protect themselves.

What is David Seymour's view on the potential for a referendum on the bill?

David Seymour supports the idea of a referendum on the bill, as he believes it would provide a clearer mandate from the public. However, he clarifies that the bill could pass without a referendum, but the public vote would offer additional support for the legislation.

What medical conditions qualify under the End-of-Life Choice Bill for assisted dying?

The bill specifies that the person must have a terminal illness or a grievous and untreatable condition. Additionally, they must be of sound mind, able to understand the nature of assisted dying, and capable of making an informed decision.