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Legislative Assembly for the ACT: 1997 Week 2 Hansard (26 February) . . Page.. 508 ..

MS REILLY (continuing):

There is no doubt that some of the discussion in the community about terminal illness, about death, is an indication of the problems we as a society have in handling death. Other members have talked about what we do not know about death, and I think it is a fact that fear of the unknown affects the way we look at it. We do not know how much we will suffer through the death of a loved one, but we cannot decide not to go ahead with this legislation because we are scared. We have to look at the rights of the individual. They are the ones who have to make the decision.

There should be the opportunity to choose voluntary euthanasia for those who wish to choose it. We are talking about a very small group in our community, but that is no reason why they should not have the opportunity and the access if that is what they require. They also need to have access to information, and it is important that we provide all the information people want and that those safeguards are in the legislation. In the end, the decision has to be made by the individual, and it should be made with as much freedom as possible and without censure.

If we introduce this legislation, we will move to a situation where it is the individual who will be making the decision; it will not be the decision of the medical practitioner, without consultation with the individual. Our community will be strengthened through empowering individuals to make decisions about their lives. This Bill will give individuals the choice to make decisions about how their lives will end, in the circumstances set out in this Bill. I encourage members to support the Bill.

MRS LITTLEWOOD (5.37): I move:

That the debate be adjourned.

I seek leave to speak briefly to the motion.

Leave granted.

MRS LITTLEWOOD: Mr Speaker, I find myself in a very difficult situation. Only eight days ago I was sworn in to this Assembly. Today I have before me a Bill of enormous magnitude, one that will have great impact on the life or, as it may be, death of people. During the time I have been here, I have heard from both sides of the argument. Those views have come from the lobby groups and, like Ms McRae, I respect both sides. However, I do not believe that at this particular point I am properly informed, and I would like to look at various alternatives before I make my decision. I would like to talk to the people in my electorate and I would also like to investigate the possibility of a referendum. I do not believe that at this point I have enough knowledge to make the decision, and I do not wish to be forced into making a decision I would regret, Mr Speaker.

Question resolved in the affirmative.

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