[Greens-Media] Greens welcome Minister's call for voluntary euthanasia law reform (Vic - C Hartland)

[Elizabeth.Ingham at parliament.vic.gov.au]

Greens MP Colleen Hartland has welcomed Labor minister Maxine Morand's 
call for Parliament to revisit the topic of voluntary euthanasia after the 
November election, and has called for the matter to be referred to the 
Victorian Law Reform Commission.

"When I introduced the private member's bill in 2008*, one of the most 
common responses from MPs was that this issue needed a thorough public 
consultation, as well as examination by experts. Many MPs indicated they 
might support the legislation if it had come from recommendations by the 
Law Reform Commission."

"That's why last month I moved for the uncertain law surrounding end of 
life medical treatment to be examined by a parliamentary committee, with a 
view to recommending referral to the Law Reform Commission." **

"The government voted against my motion, but I will hold the door open to 
supporting a government referral on this important issue."

"Dying with dignity is a mainstream issue, supported by a majority of 
Victorians, of all backgrounds and faiths.  The government has nothing to 
fear from an open debate."

"At the moment the only debate available is in parliament and in the 
community, because it remains illegal for someone to even talk to their 
doctor about the issue."

"I don't think we have the right to say to someone that they can't have 
the help they request, because of some moral problem that other people are 
having on their behalf." 

For comment: Colleen Hartland - 9689 6373

* ABC Radio incorrectly reported this morning that the Bill was moved by 
Liberals MP Ken Smith.   Mr Smith was a keen supporter of the legislation 
and had offered to sponsor the Bill in the Legislative Assembly (lower 
house), had it passed in the Legislative Council (upper house). Ms 
Hartland introduced the Bill on 11 June 2008 - 
http://mps.vic.greens.org.au/node/20

** http://mps.vic.greens.org.au/node/2178

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Liz Ingham
Office of Colleen Hartland MLC
Western Metropolitan Region

A: 75 Victoria Street, Seddon 3011
P: 9689 6373
M: 0409 333 595
F: 9689 6227
E: elizabeth.ingham at parliament.vic.gov.au
W: http://mps.vic.greens.org.au

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Parliament of Victoria                                                                                                                    . 
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