Rónán Mullen (Independent)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

I have been hearing from those who want a change in the law that it is about them and their personal decision, and maybe the family which supports them in their decision. I get the impression those who propose a change in the law do not see that other people might be affected by that choice. Is that what it comes down to? We are reassured, though it is not reassuring, that those who go for it are middle class or relatively well-off. In other words, do not worry, it will not be the vulnerable. That narrative has played out. I suspect a euthanasia law facilitates those who want to get on with lowering costs and who see complex medical treatments, particularly for those who are getting older, as a nuisance in the public healthcare system. I worry about that agenda.

I have said here we need to consider in our discussions the health economics dimension of this question, if there is one. If we legalise this for some, will others down the line, perhaps not as easy to identify but surely there, lose their will to live and strength to cope with suffering and challenge and will society be less willing to provide the back-ups? We have heard from the NDA on making sure backups are there so vulnerable people do not get caught by this, but we all know the backups will not be there any time soon.