Photo via catholicnewsagency.com

Dutch euthanasia group seeking pay day with new death clinic

A leader in the anti-euthanasia movement says that a newly-proposed euthanasia facility from a major Dutch lobby group is aimed to "push the envelope" and generate funds for the group, reports Patrick B. Craine, LifeSiteNews.com.

The Dutch group Right to Die (NVVE) says they are exploring the possibility of opening an assisting suicide facility for clients with psychiatric issues, Alzheimer's, or dementia. These cases, they say, are not being served by current facilities.

Alex Schadenberg, executive director of the Euthanasia Prevention Coalition, says NVVE is like any other group: "They have x amount of dollars and they'd like to have a little more."

He said they will likely follow the approach of their competition, the notorious Swiss facility Dignitas, whose founder, Ludwig Minelli, has gone from very minimal means to a multi-millionaire with an expensive villa. In order to make use of Dignitas' "services", clients must first purchase a membership in the organization. They then pay approximately 7,000 euros to be killed.

"There's nothing in the law of the Netherlands to stop them from doing this, so this is a good way for them to raise money," said Schadenberg. "The whole thing is sick from the beginning - this is a very effective way to raise money, to compete with Dignitas which is bringing in the money."

NVVE claims that 80% of the Netherlands' 204 hospices offer euthanasia. "A surprising number, but one that misses out patients with dementia or chronic psychiatric problems with a serious wish to die," said Petra de Jong, NVVE's director, in an interview with Volkskrant.

According to Schadenberg, the reason euthanasia is not widely offered to clients of this type is because the practice is controversial - even Dutch euthanasiasts are not willing to do them. Even though allowed by law, he maintains that NVVE is seeking to "push the limits" of what is considered acceptable in Dutch society.

NVVE says they hope their facility will be located in a hospital or care home. Their investigation is expected to conclude by the end of 2010.

SALE! 40% OFF! How to Be Happier 7 Days a Week

TAGS: Netherlands Right to Die group anti-euthanasia movement death clinic

[08/12/2010]

Print Version