Dignity in Dying Praises ‘Turning Point’

Dignity in Dying has welcomed the vote by MHKs to support a second reading of the Assisted Dying Bill.

Dr Alex Allinson’s Private Member’s Bill will still need to go through a clauses stage, but may yet go to a committee depending on a vote next week.

The Bill’s second reading passed with 17 votes to 7 after what was a debate that showed the House of Keys at its best.

Sarah Wootton, Chief Executive of Dignity in Dying said: ‘MHKs have heard the overwhelming call for change from the Manx people and voted yes to dignity today.

‘This is a historic vote, one which puts the Isle of Man on the path to become the first part of the British Isles to legalise assisted dying. It joins countries like Australia, New Zealand and the US by acknowledging that without choice, dying people suffer.

‘This is a turning point in the movement for assisted dying, which is only going in one direction: towards giving dying people choice across the British Isles. Westminster must take account of the Isle of Man’s vote, as well as progress towards law change in Jersey and Scotland, and make time for the debate on assisted dying.’

Dignity in Dying has said that ‘should receive Royal Assent next year, followed by consideration of how the legislation will be implemented, with assisted dying likely to be available in the Isle of Man in 2025’.

Dr Allinson added: ‘Today marks the start of real change in the Isle of Man to give terminally ill people much-needed choice and protection at the end of life. I look forward to working closely with Tynwald members, healthcare bodies and clinicians as this Bill progresses. Together, we will improve the range of choices for people dying in the Isle of Man.’