Greens MP Charalambos Theopemptou, has voiced his support for proposed euthanasia legislation, drawing from personal experience to reinforce his position.
In a statement to philenews, Theopemptou praised fellow MP Irene Charalambidou for her legislative proposal, expressing hope for its swift consideration.
“From personal experience, I feel the need for us to acquire such legislation, and I want to congratulate my colleague Irene Charalambidou for her law proposal, which I hope will be discussed soon,” Theopemptou said.
The MP highlighted concerns raised by organised groups about the lack of palliative care, suggesting this deficiency leads more people to consider euthanasia as an option.
Theopemptou noted that while the bill is currently under review by the Law Office, its implementation could take several years once passed. “I am certain many will have objections, but we must never forget that we are talking about human suffering,” he added.
Referencing ongoing debates in Britain about assisted dying legislation, which recently cleared its first parliamentary hurdle, Theopemptou explained the distinction between euthanasia and assisted dying. In assisted dying, he noted, patients self-administer the lethal medication, while in euthanasia, a doctor administers it.
The MP outlined that several countries, including Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Spain, Belgium, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, and Austria, have already enacted laws permitting either assisted dying or euthanasia. He cited statistics from Oregon, USA, where reasons for choosing assisted dying included loss of bodily functions (46.6%), concerns about being a burden on family (43.3%), and uncontrollable physical pain (34.3%).
A draft bill addressing palliative care is currently awaiting review by the Law Office before proceeding to parliament for consideration.
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