Doctors Divided On Assisted Dying

Thursday, 5 September 2019 09:48

Jersey doctors who have taken part in an independent survey are split on whether they think assisted dying is acceptable.

71 doctors took part in the survey commissioned by campaign group End of Life Choices Jersey.

More than a third (34%) believing assisted dying was 'always acceptable' when the condition would eventually cause death.

However the same percentage thought it was 'never acceptable'.

If the patient didn't have a terminal illness - 6% of doctors said it was always acceptable to allow assisted dying with 41% saying it wasn't.

The topic is in the spotlight after an e-petition calling for Jersey to legalise assisted dying reached nearly 2,000 signatures.

The government agreed back in February to do more research into the issue and eventually hold a public consultation . There is still no news on when that might happen.

A public debate on the issue will be held at the Jersey Arts Centre next week, which will include a speaker from Dignitas.

It is at 8pm Wed 11th September. Entry is free but tickets must be booked via JAC by calling 700444.

More from Jersey News

Jury finds Shay John Bester guilty of offences including rape

Shay John Bester has been found guilty, after going on trial for offences including six counts of rape against three young, vulnerable females.
African community groups express 'disappointment' with Deputy Ozouf sentencing

Friends of Africa Jersey and the Kenyans in Jersey Committee have come together to express their disappointment following Deputy Philip Ozouf's sentencing, and are calling for increased protection for workers who speak out about exploitation.
Island Energy to return to Royal Court over Mont Pinel gas explosion

Island Energy is set to return to the Royal Court to enter pleas after being charged by the Health and Safety Inspectorate over a gas explosion at Mont Pinel.
Jersey to introduce legal limit for PFAS in drinking water

A legal limit for PFAS in Jersey's drinking water will be introduced for the first time.
Jersey Electricity drops St Martin solar farm idea

Jersey Electricity has dropped plans for a solar farm on land in St Martin belonging to the King.
PPC won't move to block Deputy's return to States Assembly

The committee that oversees States Members' conduct says it won't being a proposition to further suspend Deputy Philip Ozouf following his conviction for immigration offences.
Jersey's next government urged to create laws preventing exploitation of workers

Charities in Jersey are urging politicians to prioritise drawing up laws to abolish modern-day slavery.
Philip Ozouf sentenced to 120 hours community service

Deputy Philip Ozouf has been sentenced to 120 hours community service and ordered to pay £5,000 for immigration offences.