Albury MP Justin Clancy's decision to vote against a voluntary assisted dying bill is "extremely disappointing" and "not representative of the community," Dying with Dignity advocates say.
Mr Clancy confirmed to The Border Mail he would not support a bill to legalise assisted dying in NSW, when debate begins in state parliament today.
The MP said he came to the decision after careful deliberation and community consultation over the past 12 months.
He said the response from the community was fairly evenly divided on the topic.
"I certainly respect there are diverse views within the electorate," he said.
The bill is set to be debated over consecutive Fridays.
Dying with Dignity area co-ordinator Sharon Potocnik said Mr Clancy's decision was not representative of the community's views.
She said a 2019 Vote Compass survey conducted by the ABC showed that 83 per cent of more than 1700 respondents from the Albury electorate supported assisted dying.
"Every survey done in recent times shows around 80 per cent of people support it - how can Justin, who is suppose to represent the electorate, justify voting against it?" she said.
"I'm extremely disappointed our representative is not representing us, the majority... I'm very disappointed for the people who are going to suffer if this bill doesn't get through."
IN OTHER NEWS:
Murray MP Helen Dalton had previously said she would support a bill to legalise assisted dying, as had Upper House MP Wes Fang.
Mrs Potocnik does not believe Mr Clancy conducted enough public consultation.
NSW is the only state yet to pass voluntary assisted dying laws. Territories are unable to legislate euthanasia.
"NSW has traditionally been the slowest when it comes to being on the right side of history as the very, very late decriminalisation of abortion demonstrates, but that's more a reflection of elected representatives than it is of the people of NSW," Mrs Potocnik said.
On Thursday NSW Premier Dominic Perrottet said he would not allow filibustering on the bill. The Liberal party is allowing a conscience vote on the matter.
Our journalists work hard to provide local, up-to-date news to the community. This is how you can continue to access our trusted content:
- Bookmark https://www.bordermail.com.au/
- Make sure you are signed up for our breaking and regular headlines newsletters
- Follow us on Twitter: @bordermail
- Follow us on Instagram @bordermail
- Follow us on Google News.
Digital journalists with The Border Mail.
Digital journalists with The Border Mail.
