THE Health Minister has thanked the States Assembly for a “respectful, thoughtful debate” on assisted dying – which he described as “one of the most serious matters we will ever address”.
Deputy Tom Binet spoke after politicians voted on Wednesday by 31 to 15 to establish an assisted dying service for adult residents who have made a voluntary and informed decision to die in certain defined circumstances.
The service will be subject to “robust safeguards” that will be “enshrined in law”, with the new legislation expected to take around 18 months to draft.
Deputy Binet said: “I would like to thank the Assembly for a respectful, thoughtful debate. Assisted dying is a complex topic which gives rise to strong and conflicting emotions, which is as it should be, given that we have been debating about one of the most serious matters we will ever address.
“I am pleased that the Assembly voted in favour of developing an assisted dying law, but on a personal level, I think it is matter of regret that they only adopted assisted dying for the terminally ill and not those experiencing unbearable suffering. However, I fully accept that this decision reflects the will of the Assembly and wishes of many Islanders.”
Chief Minister Lyndon Farnham added: “The States Assembly decision to approve assisted dying is designed to assist terminally ill islanders and their families, giving them autonomy over their end-of-life choices. Alongside this, we have agreed that robust safeguards will be enshrined in law.”
He continued: “Once the new legislation is drafted, which is expected to take up to 18 months, the States will debate the draft law and, if it is approved, assisted dying could take in place in Jersey from 2027.
“The assisted dying proposals were debated in a thoughtful, respectful and considered manner and States Members would like to thank everyone who contributed to the debate.”
