Voluntary Euthanasia Society of NZ on Lecretia Seales

The Voluntary Euthanasia Society of New Zealand is confident that a change in the law is on the way despite Justice David Collins’ judgement on the case brought by Lecretia Seales, its president Dr Jack Havill said on Friday.

Extending sympathy to the family of Lecretia, who died early this morning, Dr Havill applauded her bravery in bringing the case and said she was assured of a lasting place in New Zealand’s legal medical history for putting the issue before the country.

“We thank Lecretia for summoning her courage and limited energy to bring this case forward. She has demonstrated that the time has come for real debate about this issue.

“At least three-quarters of New Zealanders support a law change that means no more would die, but fewer would suffer,” said Dr Havill, a retired intensive care medicine specialist.

“Just last month a Research New Zealand poll found 74% of New Zealanders surveyed believe people suffering a painful incurable disease should be able to end their lives in the loving presence of family and friends secure in the knowledge that no loved one risks going to prison for helping them end their suffering.”

Dr Havill said there was a clear worldwide trend towards approving end-of-life choice and judges in Canada and South Africa had ruled this year that denying people suffering painful and terminal illnesses the right to die with dignity breached their human rights.

He said the Voluntary Euthanasia Society, also known as End-of-Life Choice, would continue to fight for the rights of other sufferers. A petition urging Parliament to debate the issue is attracting signatures nationwide and politicians could not continue to ignore it, he said.

ENDS

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