The president of the Health Council of the Irish Episcopal Conference raised concerns over assisted suicide in Ireland, a threat to human Dignity.
Newsroom (02/09/2025 Gaudium Press) Cardinal Vincent Nichols has voiced grave concerns over the potential legalization of assisted suicide in Ireland. He warned that such a significant change should undergo a thorough and appropriate parliamentary process, emphasizing that a decision of this magnitude should not be rushed. The proposed law risks making the most profound change in the country in decades, yet it is being debated in just a few hours. “The bill on fox hunting in 2004 had over 700 hours of debate, but this bill has been passed after just five hours,” Cardinal Nichols pointed out.
Despite his concerns, the Cardinal remains hopeful that the bill could still be rejected in Parliament, stressing that the issue is far from over.
A Radical Shift in Medical Ethics
Cardinal Nichols has previously stated that the proposed shift in the law could dramatically alter the role of medical professionals, changing their duty from care to killing. This would represent a fundamental departure from traditional medical ethics, which emphasize the sanctity of life and the obligation to care for the sick.
Bishop Router’s Concerns on Irish Healthcare
Bishop Michael Router, the president of the Health Council of the Irish Episcopal Conference, has lent his support to Pope Francis’ message for the 33rd World Day of the Sick. The Pope’s message encourages the faithful to provide compassionate care and presence to the suffering. Bishop Router highlights that the presence of caregivers—whether they are medical professionals, family, or friends—is a tangible expression of God’s love for those in need.
In addition, Bishop Router expressed alarm over what he views as an attack on human dignity within Ireland’s healthcare system. He mentioned the introduction of a liberal abortion policy that has led to the deaths of over 30,000 children and warned that the legalization of assisted suicide would go against the medical principle of “do no harm.”
Palliative Care as a Compassionate Solution
Bishop Router advocates for an increased focus on palliative care, emphasizing that it represents a compassionate and ethical approach to end-of-life issues. He also stressed the importance of pastoral care services, which address the spiritual needs of the sick and suffering, offering critical support and well-being.
Compiled by Donna Smolders
