SAVES is not affiliated with Exit International / Dr Philip Nitschke and opposes the public availability of a 'peaceful pill'.

Dr Macnab presented a most thoughtful discussion on the issue of voluntary euthanasia. So did Sandra Kanck who also spoke briefly on the topic and answered one of the more interesting and important questions from the audience. This was "If euthanasia was legalised, would we then see persons intent on suicide; in particular teenagers, trying to access it?" Sandra’s reply was that under her Dignity in Dying Bill, sadly defeated in the Upper House, people wishing to access voluntary euthanasia would have to consult two doctors. Depressed patients would most likely be identified, allowing early intervention and treatment, thus preventing irrational suicides. This and other safeguards do not currently exist in the practice of voluntary euthanasia while it remains illegal.

Due to advances in medical science we live longer, but being alive is more than just breathing or assisted breathing. Despite medical and palliative care, comfort and dignity are not always possible at the end of life. Also human beings seem to have an aversion towards thinking about death and the possibility of suffering in dying. However Dr Macnab stated in his talk "a mature society would see that euthanasia is a rational and sensible proposition".

There are many who believe that euthanasia is contrary to God’s laws found in the Old Testament, citing "You shall not murder" (Exodus 20:13) as an injunction even against assisted dying. (Of course murder is quite different from merciful release.) However if human life is so precious, then why is it that the death penalty is still imposed and so many humans die in wars and famine? Ironically, executions and wars are in abundance in both Testaments of the Bible. Perhaps they don’t qualify as murder?

There are several psychological concerns about death, the first being fear of the unknown. Then there is fear of pain, both physical and mental. Dr Macnab recalled a woman he had counselled, who suffered continual pain, and who stated that ‘psychologically and socially her world is dead’. However society’s cultural beliefs and laws around death see her destined to further years of suffering. Then there is guilt or shame about death, whether it is a sin to wish to die or to help someone to die.

Dr Macnab was correct in saying that nowhere in the Bible does it say that suicide is a sin. Instead he quoted "I have come that they may have life, and have it in abundance ("in all it’s fullness" John 10:10). Jesus’ message was about compassion, and the relief of suffering. If suffering is redemptive, or is a form of punishment for sin, why then did Jesus seek to heal people? The only possible argument that I can see against knowingly hastening a person’s death is that Jesus himself knew of his imminent crucifixion and suffering, yet chose to die rather than to escape. "O My Father, if it is possible, let this cup pass from Me; nevertheless, not as I will, but as You will." (Matthew 26:39).

However the Christian message is that through His suffering, death and resurrection, Jesus has paid that sacrifice (for our sins) on our behalf. "For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life. For God did not send His Son into the world to condemn the world, but that the world through Him might be saved"(John 3: 16-17).

Ultimately we must all face our own death. If death is inevitable, and Jesus has already ‘paid the price for our sin’, then surely God would not oppose a chosen and peaceful death and impose one that is drawn out and excruciating?