Passing of assisted dying laws a 'deep concern' to Manx religious group

Churches Alive in Mann vows to work for protection of the 'voiceless and vulnerable'

A religious campaign group says the passing of the assisted dying legislation in the Isle of Man is of 'deep concern'.

Churches Alive in Mann, which represents all the main Christian denominations on the Island, has been reacting to the news.

In a statement, it says it's worked over the last three years to raise its strong misgivings.

While it recognises many, in good conscience, take a different view, it's met the news with sadness.

It's broken its main concerns down into three sections.

The first is its pastoral concerns, which the organisation says the Tynwald debate as the bill's progressed towards law has done nothing to lessen, particularly for the most vulnerable members of Manx society.

It argues the very existence of this legislation will inevitably cause some of our elderly, disabled or vulnerable people to feel more of a burden.

The group says while it recognises the intent to provide training for medical professionals, involving someone specifically trained in spotting coercion like a social worker or advocate would provide greater safeguards. 

Churches Alive in Mann then raises its moral concerns, arguing that for thousands of years 'do not kill' has been an ethical foundation for many civilisations.

Its members believe that all human life is a sacred gift from God, and that the value of any member of our society is not determined by the quality of life.

It therefore argues the premature ending of an individual's life will inevitably diminish the high value it places on all lives.

Finally, the organisation says its working for the common good.

It says as secondary legislation, regulations and codes of practice are now developed, it will do all it can to work for the protection and care of all in Manx society, and especially the voiceless and vulnerable.

It's urging the members of Tynwald to follow through with their expressed intent to ensure these protections are addressed and enshrined in practice.