Cassy O’Connor MP | Greens Leader
The Tasmanian Greens are celebrating the passage of the End of Life Choices (Voluntary Assisted Dying) Bill 2020 through the Tasmanian Parliament.
Last night’s final vote on this compassionate reform reflects the will of the Tasmanian people. When it becomes law, this voluntary assisted dying framework will bring peace of mind to many Tasmanians.
The Greens have been long time advocates for the right of terminally ill patients who are unbearably suffering to peacefully end their life at a time of their choosing. After three previous attempts, the first of which began with then Greens’ Leader, Nick McKim in 2009, it’s a joyous relief to see voluntary assisted dying will finally become law.
Over more than a decade, the Greens have worked with courageous, dedicated people from all walks of life to make lutruwita/Tasmania a more compassionate place, with laws that represent the overwhelming majority of the community.
We extend our deepest gratitude to all who have poured their heart and soul into achieving this reform. This would not have happened without advocates like Margaret Sing and Hilde Nilsson from Dying with Dignity Tasmania, and Jacqui and Nat Gray.
In particular, we recognise and thank the Member for Mersey, Mike Gaffney, for his truly incredible work over the past two to three years. It is a testament to Mike that his Bill not only passed, but that it passed with resounding support from a majority of members in both Houses.
This is historic legislation that will make our island an even kinder place to call home.