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The Isle of Man has progressed towards potentially becoming the first part of the British Isles to legalise assisted dying, following the completion of a key legislative phase, as reported by The Irish News.
The Assisted Dying Bill, after seven days of debate spread over three months, has now passed its clauses stage. A third reading of the Bill is anticipated later this year.
The Isle of Man’s new assisted dying Bill includes several key provisions and recently accepted amendments.
Key Provisions
Eligibility: The Bill applies to adults who:Have lived on the Isle of Man for at least five years.Have a terminal illness with a life expectancy of less than 12 months.Have a clear intention to end their life.
Legal and Professional Safeguards
Medical Protections: Legal and workplace protections for medical professionals involved in assisted dying have been established.Opt-In System: An opt-in system for doctors willing to participate in assisted dying was approved, following a request from the British Medical Association (BMA).
Rejected Proposals
Service Separation: A proposal to separate the assisted dying service from the island’s public health service, Manx Care, was rejected.Referendum: A proposal to hold a referendum before implementing the law was also rejected.