Dawesville MP Zak Kirkup has organised two community meetings to assess his constituents' thoughts on potential voluntary assisted dying legislation.
The issue of euthanasia is set to be debated by our politicians later in the year, with scope for new laws helping people in certain situations to end their lives.
Draft legislation was presented to parliament last week and states adults who have been a WA resident for at least 12 months, have a terminal condition and the consent of two doctors, could be eligible.
The voluntary assisted dying bill has 102 safeguards in place also.
Mr Kirkup said he considered the issued to be "incredibly important to our community".
"I want to make sure that I consult widely with as many people in the electorate before arriving at any decision about how to vote on this historic legislation," he said.
"I have always maintained that no matter my personal views, I am here to serve the community which I have the privilege of representing first and foremost.
"Your views matter a great deal to me and with this in mind, I have been working hard with my team to engage with as many people as possible to ascertain how the majority of the electorate feels.
"Already more than 2500 calls have taken place, in a bid to call every single household where there is a resident aged 65 or over.
"I have also been in touch with over 30 community groups to help spread the message that I welcome as many people sharing their views with me.
"Of course, this is an issue for all people, no matter their age and I encourage all residents to get in touch with me to express how they feel about this significant issue.
"Residents can provide feedback in a number of ways: by attending one of two community meetings I'm hosting, via email, my website, call or SMS.
"There is no doubt that the Voluntary Assisted Dying Bill is one of the most significant pieces of legislation that our society has seen for some time. It is important that I am educated as possible about how our community feels, so that I can represent you in our parliament."
The first meeting will be held on Wednesday, August 21 at 10am and will be hosted at the Port Bouvard Recreation and Sporting club at 1 Thisbe Drive in Dawesville.
The second meeting will be held on Saturday, August 24 at 10am and will be hosted at the Halls Head Bowling Club at 3 Sticks Boulevard in Erskine.
To contact Mr Kirkup on this issue, e-mail zk@kirkup.com.au, visit www.kirkup.com.au, phone 9534 3200 or text 0488 826 536.
Gareth McKnight
Gareth McKnight is Mandurah Mail's editor.
Gareth McKnight is Mandurah Mail's editor.
