Pacific opponents of the End of Life Choice Bill stepped up efforts in the Capital this week with a rally at Parliament. Around 100 members of the Wellington Pacific community converged on the steps of Parliament to meet Pacific MPs and put forward their objections. The Bill would give terminally ill people the option of requesting help to die. Opponents say it will widen health inequality for Pacific people.

“We would like to remind them that the Pacific people are more vulnerable and with this Bill it can change the attitude and the mindset in the society, and that is why the rally today is so significant because this is the only way as I said. Pacific people don't get engaged with public and parliamentary processes.” said Dr Luatupu Ione Cleverley.

Faauuga Faye Seumanutafa said, “I work with a specific disability service provider and we go out and encourage our consumers to live life to the full, you know, we make them feel welcome, and let them know that they’re doing better in our lives – no matter what. But this Bill it sends out the wrong message.”

Protesters delivered a letter to the Prime Minister received by Labour MP, Anahila Suisuiki and 9 National Party MPs.

We asked Anahila Suisuiki how she will you be voting personally. “I will be voting against it. I voted against it on the First Reading so the Second Reading I will be voting against it.” she said.

We also asked National MP Fonoti Agnes Loheni. “I stand in opposition to this Bill and I'll be voting accordingly.” she said.

And the Justice Select Committee received 40,000 submissions against the Bill. It is due for a Second Reading next month.