Forums Forums National News Tony Scott suicide

The danger with "the right to die" is if it's abused and older people are forced to make that decision by family or health care professionals.
The Liverpool pathway is already in use and that can also be abused unless family really care.
This is a really difficult issue and one that will rumble on and on.

I believe that everyone should have the right to choose the time and method of their death. The hospice system will be right for many, but not for others. The main problem with Dignitas in Switzerland (not Sweden), is the cost; roughly £10,000, and you have to have a confirmed terminal illness. Anyone can use the same method as they are provided with there for a peaceful death if they are willing to risk importing an illegal substance, usually from China, and going through the far from simple procedure for testing it to ensure it's the real thing. It should be easier than that. I know there is the risk of abuse, but surely we should have the same right as we provide for our loved but suffering pets.

Hear hear Ste. Difficult for sure but so much more dignified and at least everyone gets to say 'goodbye'

I agree with having the choice IF it's for conditions whereby they'd be unable to look after themselves or be "locked in" like with some of the muscular dystrophies, CVA's, head injuries etc. I know I'd rather NOT be on a life support machine or be allowed to live if I was unable to do anything for myself and unable to communicate what I wanted.

That said, what would worry me is the fact that my family would not get my life insurance because it was "suicide". That bothers me more truth be known. I don't want my family having to fork out for funeral expenses and any other expenses.

The only issue I'd have with so called "assisted suicides" is that it could be abused.