The Health Select Committee has been asked to investigate fully public attitudes towards the introduction of legislation which would permit medically-assisted dying in the event of a terminal illness or an irreversible condition which makes life unbearable. The petition asks for a change to existing law.

In order to fully understand public attitudes the committee will consider all the various aspects of the issue, including the social, legal, medical, cultural, financial, ethical, and philosophical implications.

The Committee will investigate:

1. The factors that contribute to the desire to end one’s life.

2. The effectiveness of services and support available to those who desire to end their own lives.

3. The attitudes of New Zealanders towards the ending of one's life and the current legal situation. 4. International experiences.

Feedback due: Please send any feedback to leannem@nzno.org.nz by the 11 December 2015