Conservative voices unite in forum against Victoria’s proposed voluntary euthanasia laws

DEPUTY premier James Merlino and deputy Liberal leader David Hodgett are joining forces against proposed voluntary euthanasia laws, to put “balance into the debate”.

Deputy premier James Merlino will co-host an event about proposed euthanasia laws. Picture: Nicole Garmston

DEPUTY premier James Merlino and deputy Liberal leader David Hodgett are joining forces against proposed voluntary euthanasia laws, to put “balance into the debate”.

The opposing state MPs will host conservative voices from the Australian Medical Association and Palliative Care Victoria at a forum at State Parliament next week.

The event by the “no” advocates comes as “yes” campaigners organise public forums backed by paramedics and nurses supporting “right to die” changes to the law.

As early as next month parliament is likely to debate whether terminally ill adults in pain, who have less than a year to live, should be able to get access to lethal medication.

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Patients would have to be of sound mind and the request would have to be made three times over a 10-day “cooling-off period”, checked by another doctor, and witnessed by someone who is not a family member or beneficiary.

Both sides of the debate say at least 20 members of the legislative assembly are undecided or unwilling to declare their vote; the numbers prepared to vote in favour marginally outweigh those against.

Mr Merlino and Mr Hodgett are both close to the Catholic Church and are opposed to assisted dying.

AMA federal president Michael Gannon and Palliative Care Victoria chief executive Odette Waanders will appear at their forum.

Dr Gannon has argued against doctors having a role in any treatment the purpose of which is to lead to the patient’s death.

AMA President Dr Michael Gannon will appear at the forum. Picture: Ray Strange

Ms Waanders has said more should be done to address systemic failures in caring for dying people.

The deputy premier said tonight: “It’s time for some respectful balance in this debate. Some of the most senior leaders in the health and palliative care sectors do not support this legislation,” he said.

“I have deep concerns that these laws put at risk some of our most vulnerable Victorians,” Mr Merlino said.

His stance puts him at odds with premier Daniel Andrews and other senior ministers.

Mr Hodgett said that both sides of politics were committed to ensuring that MPs had as much advice and as many opinions as possible.

Paul Price, on behalf of advocacy group Go Gently Australia, said yesterday that 75 per cent of Victorians wanted “choice at the end of life”.

“The suffering will continue if our elected members don’t act now,” Mr Price said.

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