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The local branch of a group campaigning in support of assisted dying legislation is to step up its campaigning in the lead-up to a crucial States debate next month.
The Island branch of Healthcare Professionals for Assisted Dying was set up by Dr Nigel Minihane, who worked as a GP for more than 30 years and was formerly head of the Island’s Primary Care Body.
On the evening of 16 May, a few days before details of proposed legislation will be considered by politicians, there will be a briefing session for healthcare professionals, including guest speaker Dr Anna Negus, an anaesthetist who provides voluntary assisted dying to patients in Perth, Australia.
Healthcare Professionals for Assisted Dying is a network of 3,000 professionals working in healthcare across the British Isles.
Dr Minihane, who is a long-time supporter of assisted dying, said: "Like the majority of Islanders, I am convinced the law must change to allow our terminally-ill citizens the choice to die on their own terms, alongside the very best end-of-life care.
"Many healthcare professionals share this view and are gravely concerned about the dangers of the current law, which forces people to suffer against their wishes.
"We believe that it is time for Jersey to do the right thing and introduce a law that gives dying people the choice, compassion and protection they are sorely lacking at the moment."
Pictured: Detailed proposals for assisted dying in Jersey are due to be debated in the States Assembly on 21 May 2024.
Dr Minihane said the group would be discussing the role healthcare professionals might play in legislation and hoped to support States Members as they consider the practical implications of law change.
The government has organised a series of briefings, the next of which will take place on Wednesday 1 May.
Dr Minihane added: “I would encourage anyone who is keen to be involved in our group to attend so that you can meet like-minded professionals and help shape the future of end of life in Jersey.”
Those interested in the government briefing events can find out more information by emailing assisteddying@gov.je, while those wishing to contact Dr Minihane should email nigel.minihane@gmail.com and registration enquiries for the event on 16 May should be done via office@hpad.org.uk.
Enable Jersey is hosting a session tomorrow (Tuesday 30 April) from 5.30pm at St Paul's Centre, where islanders with disabilities will be able to put their views forward.
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