Panelists on Backbenches last night were asked their view on Maryan Street’s proposed euthanasia legisaltion.

National MP Maggie Barry said she hadn’t seen what would be in the bill yet but she would definitely oppose it, She cited her experience:
National Party profile: Her extensive community work includes being Patron of Hospice NZ
Mary Potter Hospice: MAGGIE BARRY BECOMES HOSPICE’S AMBASSADOR

She said that hospices and good palliative care meant that euthanasia wasn’t necessary. She also claimed that pain was not experienced by a patient if cared for.

I think she’s wrong. I’ve seen close up very good palliative care in a hospice situation. One problem was that pain relief was often reactive. And it didn’t prevent severe discomfort, nor did it avoid the loss of dignity my mother dreaded.

As good as they are there’s things a hospice can’t deal with adequately.