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Canadian doctor says assisted dying law is being used by more people than anticipated

Medical professional from Quebec gives evidence to MHKs

A Canadian doctor has claimed that the assisted dying law, passed in her country, is being used by more people than anticipated despite it being hailed as an ‘exceptional’ procedure.

Dr Ramona Coelho, from Quebec, spoke to some members of the House of Keys yesterday (11 June) whilst MHKs were considering the clauses of the Isle of Man’s Assisted Dying Bill.  

She’s told Manx Radio there were 13,000 assisted deaths in 2022 and around 16,000 last year.

Dr Coelho says she’s concerned about how the law impacts the most marginalised of people:

A Ramsey MHK says the Isle of Man is on its way to getting the ‘right legislation’ to permit assisted dying.

Alex Allinson, who is moving the Assisted Dying Bill through the House of Keys, says any law change will need to consider the Island’s individual position.

Dr Allinson says any legislation here would have numerous safeguards:

 

 

 

 

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