John Lahart (Dublin South West, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I can identify with what Dr. Chapman said because some representatives of general practitioners in Ireland came before the committee. Due to the fact that this is anathema to the culture in Ireland at the moment, it is interesting and refreshing to hear someone say that initially they felt like a bad doctor. I certainly have the feeling that there might be a public impression abroad that an assisted death might be a lesser death and it would be a conscientious issue for someone to overcome. Dr. Chapman might be able to comment on that.

Dr. Chapman mentioned something that is critical for me, namely end-of-life care at the very end of life. There is pain and there are conditions that are beyond palliative care. That seems to be very clear. I need "Yes" or "No" answers on that.

It is an important point. It is beyond the remit of palliative care.