Emer Higgins (Dublin Mid West, Fine Gael)
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I have two questions on issues similar to those Professor Chochinov has just addressed, but perhaps he will elaborate. He is not necessarily talking about starting a separate profession but, rather, a new profession within a profession, if one likes. I would like to understand more the potential risks in that regard. Could it be divisive? Could it intensify what he described as conflicted space that medical practitioners could find themselves in when it comes to balancing obligations? Would additional regulations or legislation be needed to start up that sub-profession, if one likes?

Are the witnesses from the INMO aware whether advanced nurse practitioners have any role in assisted dying in countries outside Ireland?

My final question is for all the witnesses. Most people believe that if assisted dying were to come in, it should be in exceptional situations. The phrase "last resort" has been used quite a lot. What would be the medical ramifications of that? What does it mean in terms of a medical model?