Isle of Man passes Assisted Dying Bill – first local jurisdiction to do so

The Isle of Man has this morning become the first part of the UK and Crown dependencies to pass an Assisted Dying Bill. Humanists UK and its assisted dying coalition partner My Death, My Decision Isle of Man has welcomed the historic vote.

The Bill will make assisted dying available to adult Isle of Man residents who are of sound mind, are terminally ill, have twelve months or fewer to live, and have a clear and settled wish to die.

Vicky Christian, Chair of My Death, My Decision Isle of Man said:

‘This is a historic day. This Bill will ensure people on the Isle of Man will finally have choice and dignity at the end of their lives. I am incredibly proud of our island for not only listening to its people but, more importantly, listening to those facing the end of life. In this debate, compassion and evidence have prevailed.

‘I want to thank the Members of Tynwald for their dedication to this cause. But above all, I want to thank the individuals who shared their personal stories and stood with us throughout this journey – this has truly been a campaign led by the people.’

Humanists UK Chief Executive Andrew Copson said:

‘This is a historic moment. The Isle of Man has become the first part of these islands to extend compassion and freedom of choice to its people by giving them a choice in the place and timing of their death.

‘Evidence and compassion has won out against attempts to wreck and delay the legislation. We urge parliamentarians looking on from elsewhere – from Westminster to Holyrood – to follow in the courageous footsteps of the Isle of Man’s politicians and act so that their citizens can also have the option of an assisted death.’

Today, Members of the Legislative Council, the upper chamber, agreed amendments rejected from the Isle of Man’s lower house – including an amendment to cut the residency criteria from five years to 12 months for someone to be eligible.

The Bill will now go for Royal Assent and the Isle of Man will be the first local jurisdiction to legalise assisted dying, with choice potentially available to terminally ill residents from 2027.