Assisted Dying

The Voluntary Euthanasia Society has changed its name to Dignity in Dying and has a new website: www.dignityindying.org.uk

Lord Joffe’s Assisted Dying bill went before the House on May 12th 2007.

New Prison Chapel

We were pleased to hear from the Department of Home Affairs that the new prison will have a multi-use room.

It is important that all prisoners are treated equally and, if they reflect the community generally, many will not have any religious beliefs.

Marriage and Civil Registration Bill

After much delay public consultation on proposed changes to the Marriage Act 1984 and the Civil Registration Act 1984 has completed. Submissions had to be in by 5th January 2007. We await the government report.

Among other things the changes relate to having approved places such as hotels and public buildings for civil ceremonies. This is something we have been campaigning for.

Civil Partnerships

Civil Partnerships are now permitted in the United Kingdom providing same sex couples with a degree of legal and economic protection. Civil partnership ceremonies are not permitted on the Isle of Man yet but the rights of people who are already in partnerships must be observed when they come here to live and work.

Alternative Venues for Weddings

In other parts of the world you can be married in a hotel or significant local building-even on the beach where the climate allows! But in the Isle of Man weddings must still take place in a designated church, chapel or register office. Plans are being made to change this and buildings such as the Villa Marina may be licensed to hold wedding ceremonies as well as receptions. Many people recognise that they only have a church wedding because it makes a pretty background and the churches would probably prefer fully committed Christians to be married on their premises.

Information about possible changes to the law can be obtained from The General Registry in Deemster’s Walk, Bucks Road, Douglas 685 481