"The bill provides compassion and support for people who are suffering intolerably, and who want to die.  But it also provides safeguards, and regulates a process that is currently going on in the dark," said Colleen Hartland, MLC for Western Metropolitan Region.

Ms Hartland outlined a range of safeguards in the bill, for patients, medical staff and other Victorians

"The process is transparent, yet private.  There are independent checks at every stage, from the second opinion of a doctor, right through to a Coroner's report being presented to parliament.  These safeguards are far superior to those in the present system," said Ms Hartland.

"Individual doctors, organisations and health care providers may refuse to participate.  At least two independent doctors must be satisfied that the patient is terminally ill or has an advance incurable illness, with no realistic prospect of recovery, and is suffering intolerably.  Assistance can only be granted if palliative care is not suitable to the patient.  There are penalties of 14 years prison for attempting to unduly influence a sufferer to make a request for physician assisted dying."

"Most importantly, anybody who assists the patient in a formal way, waives any right to inherit or benefit from the death, directly or indirectly.  By removing completely the temptation of money or inheritance, we are removing completely any possibility that physician assisted dying will assist criminals.  We are also removing any hint of stain upon the character of the people who assist those who request assistance to die."

"It is likely that the mere existence of physician assisted dying, may give people the courage to continue with the final stage of their illness.  They would know that relief will be available, should they need it."

"I cannot look people in the eye and say 'you don't deserve the help you request, because of some moral problem that other people are having on your behalf'," said Colleen Hartland

Debate on this Bill is expected to resume on 25 June 2008.  Click here for a copy of the Second Reading Speech.*

Further comment:  Colleen Hartland  9689 6373

* This version is slightly different from the Parliament transcript.  The Hansard Transcript will be available overnight.