[Greens-Media] Greens welcome conscience vote for rights of terminally ill in NSW

[Peter Stahel]

Greens welcome conscience vote for rights of terminally ill in NSW

Greens MP Cate Faehrmann has welcomed Premier Kristina Keneally's commitment that she will allow a conscience vote on the Greens proposed voluntary euthanasia legislation.

"Opposition Leader Barry O'Farrell should now show the same leadership and give the same commitment," Ms Faehrmann said.

"But with a green light for a full and proper parliamentary debate, the people of New South Wales should not be concerned by the inevitable fear campaign from the religious right.

"The Greens' bill will contain extremely stringent safeguards*. Only the most motivated, suffering, terminally ill individuals will be able to use the procedures provided for under the legislation.

"With public support for voluntary euthanasia at 86.5 percent in NSW according to a recent Newspoll**, our politicians should move into the 21st century and support the Greens' bill.

"Unfortunately for a small group of people with a terminal illness, even the best palliative care cannot alleviate their worst suffering. 

"In our civilised society, a medically assisted death should be one of the choices available to terminally ill adults, whose suffering cannot be alleviated and who want to die with dignity," said Ms Faehrmann.

*A media briefing summary of the safeguards to be included in the bill is available on request

**Newspoll prepared for Dying with Dignity NSW is available on request

Media contact: Peter Stahel 0433 005 727