In a significant step toward legalizing assisted dying, the Joint Committee on Assisted Dying in Ireland is set to publish its report on March 20. Following days of deliberation, the committee proposed legislation allowing medically assisted dying for terminally ill patients with a life expectancy of six to 12 months, and up to 12 months for neurodegenerative conditions. The majority of committee members endorsed the recommendation, emphasizing that the proposed law must ensure patients face unbearable distress and suffering due to their illness. Additionally, the assisted dying process should be supervised by a medical professional. If enacted, this legislation could mark a profound shift in Ireland’s approach to end-of-life care.
