Assisted Suicide
Irish psychiatrists warn against assisted suicide
An official body representing psychiatrists in Ireland has cautioned against assisted suicide, which will “place vulnerable people at risk”.
The College of Psychiatrists of Ireland states that assisted suicide and euthanasia are “not necessary for a dignified death”, and “techniques used to bring about death can themselves result in considerable and protracted suffering”.
“We believe it will place vulnerable people at risk, and we believe that there will be unintended consequences, such as an increase in the numbers requesting euthanasia or assisted suicide”, the College states.
“With adequate resources, including psychiatric care, psychological care, palliative medicine, pain services and social supports, good end-of-life care is possible”, it adds.
Last week, a Conservative Peer cautioned called for legislators in the UK to listen to vulnerable people as they consider proposals to change the law.
Writing for The Times, Lord McColl cited the experience of Oregon, which is the model for ‘assisted dying’ legislation currently before the House of Lords:
“Oregon’s data shows that such legislation does not decrease violent non-assisted suicides; far from it”, he said.
“Orientating culture to a normalisation of suicide jars fundamentally with improving suicide prevention efforts and presents suicide as a desirable alternative.”
The Peer added: “We have a fundamental responsibility to uphold a medical ethic which makes, promotes, affirms, and protects the value of human life, whatever the challenges.
“If society really wants to debate assisted suicide it must listen to the testimonies and fears of the many vulnerable people who are terrified by these proposals”.
A consultation is ongoing on assisted suicide legislation set to be lodged in the Scottish Parliament. This closes on 22 December. If you live in Scotland, please consider responding. Our briefing explains more.
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