If a majority of New Zealanders vote "yes" in the euthanasia referendum on October 17, it will be legalised in a year's time. Photo / 123rf
If a majority of New Zealanders vote "yes" in the euthanasia referendum on October 17, it will be legalised in a year's time. Photo / 123rf
New Zealand will vote next month on whether it wants voluntary euthanasia to be legalised.
Before you cast your vote, here are five things you should know.
1. You have the final say.
The referendum is binding, and a majority "yes" vote will mean voluntary euthanasia will be made legalexactly a year after election day (October 17). A "no" vote will mean we keep the status quo.
Parliament has twice voted against laws to legalise euthanasia in New Zealand. Former National MP Michael Laws' Death with Dignity Bill was heavily defeated in 1995. And NZ First MP Peter Brown's bill by the same name was narrowly defeated - by just two votes - in 2003.
On the latest attempt, Act Party MP David Seymour's End of Life Choice Act has already been passed by Parliament - but relies on a public vote to get it over the line.
3. If legalised, euthanasia would not be available to anyone.
It would be limited to NZ citizens or permanent residents who are 18 years or older and suffer from a terminal illness which is likely to end their lives within six months.
They also need to be: • in an advanced state of irreversible decline in physical capability • experiencing unbearable suffering that cannot be relieved in a manner that they consider tolerable • competent to make an informed decision about dying
They also cannot be eligible on the basis of age, mental illness, or disability alone.
4. Opponents are concerned, however, that legalisation might create risks for a broader group.
Some countries have broadened their euthanasia laws. This is being considered in Canada, which New Zealand's law was partly based on. A law change there could soon make euthanasia available to non-terminal patients.
Supporters of the End of Life Choice Act say that doesn't foreshadow what could happen here. Those changes were a response to a ruling by Canada's Supreme Court, and were based on a constitution which does not exist in New Zealand. Any further changes to New Zealand's law would need to get through Parliament.
5. Euthanasia generally benefits the most privileged people in society.
Analysis of deaths in the United States, Canada and Europe found those most likely to access assisted dying were old, white, well-educated and relatively wealthy.
This is mainly because this group are more likely to be able to have better access to the healthcare system, and are better able to navigate the medical and bureaucratic hurdles to assisted dying.
Act Party leader David Seymour's End of Life Choice Act was passed by Parliament in November. Voters now have the final say on whether it goes ahead. Photo / 123rf
Read more of the Herald's coverage of the euthanasia and cannabis referendums:
