Light at the of the tunnel?

A recent newsletter from End of Life Choice NZ reports that there may be a shift in the views of the Parliamentary Committee studying ending of life in NZ.  At the submissions last year, Bev and I heard at least one Committee member say firmly that there would be no recommendations coming to Parliament as a result of the Committee’s work. They would merely collect data and pass it on to the House. 

But now, according to Chair Simon O’Connor, who has made no secret of his outright opposition to any change in the law, there seems to be a change of heart. He is quoted as saying he suspects the Committee will actually make recommendations. 

“I think at this stage it probably will go further than simply (ask) the House (to) take note of its report," he said. "I think there are some elements coming through - most members, if not all, think there are some things we should be recommending further here.” 

This is a more encouraging view than we have heard previously from the Committee. It will hearten members of End of Life Choice (the upcoming name for the Voluntary Euthanasia Society NZ) as they have their annual meetings next month.