Thursday, August 31, 2006

Politician denies euthanasia speech promotes suicide

In this case, we are not dealing with a psych, but a stupid politician

South Australian Democrat MP Sandra Kanck says she has not promoted suicide in a speech to State Parliament, detailing methods for voluntary euthanasia. The speech, lasting about half-an-hour, mentioned equipment, substances and services available for voluntary euthanasia. Ms Kanck insists she is not encouraging people to commit suicide.

"People looking for simple ways to end their lives by accessing this speech are not going to find them," she said. Ms Kanck told the Upper House her speech did not promote suicide, but attacked what "stupid federal laws" banning advice about euthanasia on television or on the phone.

"Some will say this will cause an increase in youth suicide," she said."There will not be an increase in suicides as a result of this speech."

Mental Health Minister Gail Gago disagrees.

"The outlining of suicide details is likely to lead to the deaths of vulnerable people," she said.

Family First MP Andrew Evans says voluntary euthanasia is a dangerous cause. "When you analyse that facts about euthanasia, no one in their right mind would support it," he said.

The SA Government says it cannot stop Ms Kanck's speech being reprinted in Hansard.

No comments: