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.
Under the current provisions, the Bill applies exclusively to adults who have resided on the island for a minimum of five years, have a terminal illness with a life expectancy of less than 12 months, and have a determined intention to end their life.
Additionally, measures to provide legal and workplace protections for medical professionals involved in assisted dying have been agreed upon. A request from the British Medical Association (BMA) for an opt-in system for doctors willing to participate was also approved. However, proposals to separate the service from the island’s public health service, Manx Care, and to hold a referendum before implementing the law were rejected.
Dr. Alex Allinson, the Member of the House of Keys (MHK) behind the Bill, expressed gratitude for the proposed and accepted amendments, stating they would “reinforce safeguards” in the legislation. He acknowledged the thorough nature of the debate and noted that while opposition remains, a significant majority of members are now satisfied with the Bill’s amendments, paving the way for a third reading.
Dr. Allinson mentioned the potential for the Isle of Man to be the first in the British Isles to present such legislation for royal assent. He emphasized the need for a lengthy implementation period, involving collaboration with organisations like the General Medical Council (GMC) and the BMA to operationalise the Bill.
If the Bill receives royal assent next year, campaigners anticipate that assisted dying could become available to eligible residents of the Isle of Man by 2027. Similar legislation is currently under consideration in Scotland and Jersey.
New Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer, before taking office, committed to allowing a vote on legalising assisted dying.
