Earlier this year, Health Minister Richard Renouf began a review looking at how other jurisdictions had facilitated assisted dying and the issues which it had presented.
During this week’s States sitting, the minister said the work was continuing but that there were still a number of ethical and legislative hurdles to overcome.
Michael Talibard, of End of Life Choices Jersey, has now criticised the lack of progress since the initial commitment was made to look into assisted dying.
He said: ‘Health Minister Richard Renouf told us that he needs more time for his project of research into assisted dying, and public consultation on the issue. We at campaign group End of Life Choices Jersey, whose petition set off this process, feel that more progress might have been made by now – it is many months since the minister committed himself to this.
‘The right to a say in how they will die is of deep importance to many people, and its time has come.
‘There are many indications that society generally, and the relevant professional bodies, are moving on such issues – but we need figures.’
He said the group had invited independent firm 4insight to conduct a public survey into the matter.
The survey can by found at bit.ly/endoflifechoicessurvey. A similar survey for healthcare professionals is also being launched.
The results of the public survey are expected to be released in a report published by 4insight for End Of Life Choices in late August or September 2019.
