[Greens-Media] MARK PARNELL MLC: Greens push for new SA euthanasia laws

[Parnell]

Media release
Thursday 13th November, 2008


Greens push for new SA euthanasia laws


Greens MLC Mark Parnell has introduced into State Parliament a new bill
to allow voluntary euthanasia. 

"This Bill is careful and conservative. It will stretch existing
legislation on medical treatment, rather than create new stand-alone
laws," said Greens MLC Mark Parnell. 

"I have watched closely previous debates in South Australia and
interstate and have attempted to allay the concerns of opponents.  I am
introducing a fresh approach to balance the need for protection for the
vulnerable with the right to die with dignity," he said. 

The Greens Bill will differ from previous attempts by other MPs
including Sandra Kanck and Bob Such.  While their Bills tried to
effectively create a new right into state law, the Greens Bill will
include voluntary euthanasia into the existing Consent to Medical
Treatment and Palliative Care Act.  

Also, greater protection is provided through the creation of a new
5-person, Government appointed Board, including medical and palliative
care experts, which will need to give final approval before a physician
can act.  The Board will also have the capacity to investigate, seek
further psychiatric or other medical testing, and hear from concerned
family members. 

"It's well and truly time for a fresh debate in SA.  By the time we get
to vote on this Bill, 10 of the 22 members of the Upper House will be
considering this issue for the first time.

"Worldwide, there is increasing support for similar laws.  On the same
day as Barack Obama was elected US President, the state of Washington
voted overwhelmingly in a referendum for physician assisted death for
terminally ill people, after seeing how well these laws have worked in
the neighbouring US state of Oregon.

"SA used to be a trailblazer when it came to social reform in areas such
as voting for women.  We have a great chance to lead Australia again. 

"Overwhelmingly the SA community wants the law to change.  It's time for
the SA Parliament to once again have this debate," he said.
 

	
For further comment contact Craig Wilkins on 0434 007 893

	
 


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