Opposition to the progress on Assisted Dying Bill

The Isle of Man’s Assisted Dying Bill, supported by two-thirds of MHKs at its third reading, faces strong opposition from healthcare professionals and ethical advocates.

The proposed law, which allows terminally ill patients the right to choose to die, has moved forward in the Isle of Man, prompting serious concerns from opponents.

Passing its third reading in the House of Keys, the bill now moves to the Legislative Council for further review.

Manx Duty of Care, a group comprising healthcare professionals, expressed deep disappointment, stating that emotion had "overruled reason" in the debate.

Retired GP Graham McAll, a member of Manx Duty of Care, warned that the passing of the bill meant “centuries of medical ethics were turned upside down” and could deter doctors from working on the island, impacting healthcare services.

Dr. Fiona Baker from the Isle of Man Medical Society echoed these concerns, highlighting the "sadness and anger" among society members.

She emphasised the risks to vulnerable groups and potential damage to the health service, pointing out dangers like premature deaths due to misdiagnoses, incorrect prognoses, and unnoticed coercion.

While supporters, including Sarah Wootton of Dignity in Dying, hailed the decision as a "victory for compassion and common sense," opponents are worried about the broader implications. They believe that the bill’s advancement could lead to significant ethical and practical challenges within the medical community.

The proposed legislation, introduced by Alex Allinson, would allow terminally ill adults with a prognosis of 12 months or less to end their lives, provided they have lived on the Isle of Man for five years.

Despite gaining support from two-thirds of the island's 24 MHKs, a significant portion remains concerned about its potential impact.

Dr. Allinson acknowledged the opposition and supported further scrutiny to ensure the bill meets the community's needs.

The Assisted Dying Bill 2023 will be reviewed by the Legislative Council after the Tynwald summer recess, ending in October.

Opponents hope this review will address their concerns and uphold ethical standards in healthcare.