Manx politicians consider bill to allow assisted dying

Proposed new laws that would see terminally-ill Manx residents given the right to choose to end their lives are set to be debated by MHKs.

The Assisted Dying Bill 2023, which is a private members' bill by Alex Allinson MHK, is set to have its second reading in the House of Keys.

It would give those with less than six months to live the right to die.

Demonstrations for and against the bill were held outside the legislative buildings ahead of the sitting.

If the bill passes its second reading, a bid will be made to have a committee consider its clauses.

Public opinion was split over the issue following the results of a public consultation in April.

However, views among medics have been more polarised, after a survey by the Isle of Man Medical Society found nearly three quarters of respondents rejected the new laws.

Dr Allinson has since said that legislation could be written to allow an opt-in system for doctors, so no one would be obligated to undertake an assisted death.

Dignity in Dying campaigners gathered outside the Tynwald buildings in Douglas

Ahead of the sitting UK pressure group Dignity in Dying held a demonstration in favour of the bill.

Urging MHKs to support it, chief executive Sarah Wooton said dying people "want choice at the end of life", and while very few people would take it up, the option was "absolutely essential" for residents who might need it.

But people taking part in a demonstration against the proposals holding placards with the phrases "bin the bill" and "protect the vulnerable" were also present outside the legislative buildings on Bucks Road in Douglas.

Community nurse Lisa Collins said while she had "great empathy" with those who were "suffering" and their families, the answer was not "to speed up their death" but to put more money into palliative care.

Campaigners against the bill also held a protest outside the building as politicians arrived

Opposition to the proposed law change was also sent to Tynwald members in a letter signed by 130 health and social care professionals, who expressed "deep concern" over bill.

The letter by Manx Duty of Care said there were "ethical and practical reasons" for opposing the proposed laws as "no amount of safeguards" would protect vulnerable people and the proposals risked some medics leaving the island and could hinder recruitment in future.

The island did "not need" the legislation" and the community benefitted from "a very comprehensive, well respected and well established palliative care service", the letter said.

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