#529 Ireland’s Assisted Dying Debate

In this episode, host Niall sits down with Niamh Uí Bhriain (Gript Media) for a deep-dive on where Ireland currently stands in the fight over euthanasia and assisted dying — and exactly why Niamh strongly opposes legislative change in this area.

We begin by mapping out the legal backdrop: under Irish law both euthanasia and assisted suicide remain illegal, and aiding or abetting a person’s death is punishable under the Criminal Law (Suicide) Act 1993.

hospicefoundation.ie

While passive withdrawal of treatment is permitted in limited cases, any active assistance to end life remains criminal.

Next, Niamh and Niall unpack the evolving legislative landscape. A Private Member’s Bill, the Dying with Dignity Bill 2020, was introduced to the Dáil by Gino Kenny.

It passed a second reading and was referred for scrutiny by the Joint Committee on Justice, but the Committee flagged serious drafting flaws and potential unintended consequences.

In 2023, a Special Oireachtas Committee on Assisted Dying was established to explore the policy, legal, constitutional, and ethical dimensions of reform.

In March 2024, that Committee published its reports: the majority report recommended limited legalization (for adults with incurable illness, within strict safeguards), while a minority report opposed any change and instead advocated strengthening palliative care.

Most recently, in October 2024 the Dáil voted (76 to 53) to “take note” of the Committee’s final report — a symbolic move acknowledging the issue, though not legally binding, but indicating increased support among legislators.

The next steps toward actual legislation remain uncertain, especially with upcoming elections and political priorities shifting.

During the conversation, Niamh lays out her objections: concerns about constitutional protections of life, risk to vulnerable people, slippery-slope effects, and the adequacy of safeguards. Niall then opens the phone lines, inviting callers to weigh in: Would you support a right to die with dignity? He explores both sides:

In favour: autonomy over one’s death, relief from intolerable suffering, dignity, compassion for terminal patients

Against: potential coercion, misuse, undermining palliative care, risking lives of disabled or elderly, moral objections

Whether you’re curious about the precise legal status in Ireland or seeking to hear real voices from the public, this episode offers a robust and respectful discussion on one of the most sensitive ethical debates facing Ireland today.