Gino Kenny Asks Government for Free Vote on Assisted Dying Bill

Gino Kenny questioned the Government on whether it will grant TDs in Government parties a free vote on legislation recommended by the Joint Committee on Assisted Dying. He said he personally does not agree with the proposed legislation and has "really serious reservations", and he noted that within Fianna Fáil life issues are treated as matters of conscience.

Debate and recommendation

The Joint Committee on Assisted Dying produced a final report in March this year that recommended a legislative change, which was the subject of a subsequent Dáil debate highlighted by the speaker.

Question to the Government

Gino Kenny directly asked whether the Government will allow TDs in Government parties a free vote when the matter comes before the Dáil next Wednesday.

Party conscience position

He stated that within Fianna Fáil there has long been a view—going back close to a decade—that issues to do with life are matters of conscience, and that this will remain the party's position in respect of the legislation.

Speaker's personal stance

Although he raised the procedural question about a free vote, he made clear that he personally does not support the legislation and has very serious reservations about it.

Uncertainty for other parties

The speaker noted he could not speak for other parties in the Government, leaving open the question of how TDs from other parties will be treated on a conscience vote.