ASSISTED DYING
The debate around assisted dying is one of the most sensitive and deeply personal issues we face in public life. In recent months it has rightly received a great deal of attention, and many people across Wales have been reflecting on what it means for dignity, care, and support at the end of life.
On 24 February 2026, the Senedd debated and voted on the Legislative Consent Motion concerning Assisted Dying in Wales. The motion passed with 28 votes in favour, 23 against, and two abstentions. After a great deal of thought and reflection, I voted against the motion.
I want to be clear that this was not an easy decision. Issues like this are matters of conscience, and they require careful and thoughtful consideration. People can and do hold deeply held views on both sides of the debate, often shaped by very personal experiences of illness, loss, and caring for loved ones.
One experience that particularly stayed with me while thinking about this issue was a visit to Ty Olwen Hospice. Seeing first-hand the compassion, dignity, and care provided by the staff there was incredibly moving. The work they do supporting patients and families through the most difficult moments of their lives is truly remarkable.
That visit reinforced for me the importance of high-quality palliative and hospice care. Ensuring that people have access to proper pain relief, emotional support, and dignified care at the end of life must always be a priority.
Ultimately, my concerns about the potential risks involved, particularly around safeguarding vulnerable people, meant that I did not feel able to support the motion. These are complex issues and there are no easy answers, but I believe it is essential that any changes in this area are approached with great caution.
In the interests of transparency, I spoke during the Senedd debate and set out my reasoning in full. If you would like to watch my contribution, you can do so here:
https://www.facebook.com/watch/?v=25195098590164209
I fully recognise that people will hold different views on this matter, and I respect those perspectives. Conversations about end-of-life care are never simple, but they are important, and they must always be approached with compassion and care.
