GREENS leader Bob Brown has recently submitted a private members bill to legalise euthanasia in Australian external territories.
Democrats Senator Lyn Allison supports him and believes the so-called “right to die” is a basic human right.
There is no such “right”. This is the very opposite to the basic right to life and the quality care and compassion needed until its natural end.
Everyone has the right to normal food, water, warmth, hygiene and basic medicines at all stages of life.
These can never be classed as “medical” or “extraordinary” treatment as some would have it today.
If euthanasia and assisted suicide are permitted, the standard of palliative care will fall because it is cheaper and easier to kill off people than to alleviate their pain and care for them (i.e. Holland).
The emotional arguments of the likes of the Terry Schiavo case are a false compassion in rare extreme cases, and can never justify the killing of the innocent – (even if they consent).
We are all candidates in due course. Who will decide for you?
Some want euthanasia and assisted suicide as part of the legal system for total control of life and society. They want an efficient designer-society like on an animal farm (utilitarian).
Who will decide about life values? Will the market dollar rule life? Who really cares about higher things?
Both leaders Howard and Rudd oppose the bill but would allow a conscience vote on the matter.
Let’s hope our politicians know and care for the true values of human life.
FR BERNARD McGRATH
Inglewood, Vic
