Euthanasia protesters ‘attacked free speech’

“Pro-life demonstrators have been accused of a blatant attack on free speech after the controversial abandonment of a medical debate on euthanasia. The outspoken British doctor, Prof Len Doyal, had to receive a private security escort from Cork University Hospital’s lecture theatre amid concerns for his safety after a heated protest threatened to spiral out of control. Such was the controversy over the proposed public debate on euthanasia or the voluntary ending of life that it sparked an angry denouncement from the Bishop of Cork & Ross Dr John Buckley — and also triggered an angry row in the Seanad. Gardai were ultimately called to CUH last Thursday — but did not intervene — after repeated attempts by the lecture chairman, Prof Eamon Quigley, to restore order failed …” (more)

[Ralph Riegal, Independent, 12 April]