Emer Higgins (Dublin Mid West, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I thank all of our guests for being here with us today. I thank the Chair, the Acting Chair, all of the committee members and all the witnesses who have attended over the last number of months. This is our last meeting of this special committee.

In the past few months, we have heard from healthcare professionals, palliative care professionals, theologians, legal experts, NGOs and from those with international experience from abroad. We have heard about a huge array of expertise and, in many ways, contrary views. It is a complex issue that we are exploring at this committee and unfortunately for members of the committee and the secretariat, the work will not be finished today. It will not be finished until 20 March or thereafter.

I will put on the record that my views have changed since the beginning of this committee. That shows the value of these committees and of witnesses coming before us and helping to shape views and potential legislation.

I differ from my colleagues about the HSE's statements on safeguards. While there are six themes of safeguards in its statement, I only see one safeguard listed, that is, that conscientious objection should be enabled. There is a possibility of a second on additional time being given. I have struggled with this throughout these committee meetings because we have heard many views and safeguarding has come up again and again. I have found it difficult to get examples of what safeguards should be introduced if this legislation comes into play.

My second question is for both the HSE and the Department. We heard from international experience that other countries have taken assisted dying outside their versions of the HSE, if you like, and set it up in an independent or separate authority. That approach was supported by healthcare workers who chose to work in that area. Could that work in Ireland?