My Lord, – The proposals set forth by the Oireachtas Committee on Assisted Dying, supporting assisted suicide and euthanasia for individuals inflicted with an “incurable, progressive, irreversible, and advanced” medical condition expected to cause death within six months, and within 12 months for neurodegenerative diseases, is likely to garner backing from those who advocate respecting the desires of those who prefer not to endure suffering (News, March 7th). Nonetheless, these suggestions will raise red flags for those individuals such as myself, who interact with vulnerable adults regularly. We understand that some may contemplate euthanasia, driven by the fear of imposing on others, or a sudden diagnosis may haste them into a premature decision out of fear of the potential implications of their illness. Others who are incapacitated may be potentially at risk from family members unwilling to bear the financial and physical burden of a relative. There’s also the unsettling prospect of a potential extension of the constraints on assisted dying, like other jurisdictions have witnessed over time. Yours sincerely, FRANK BROWNE, Dublin 16.
Lord, – If the Taoiseach fears that a negative vote could hinder the country’s progress (News, March 7th), he surely hasn’t yet been acquainted with the recommendations of the Oireachtas Committee on Assisted Dying. This represents giant strides backwards for the country, particularly detrimental for its most susceptible citizens. Yours sincerely, Prof TONY O’BRIEN, Specialist in Palliative Medicine consultant, Rochestown, Cork.