Reform body calls for legislation on ‘living wills’

The Law Reform Commission is recommending the introduction of legislation that would allow adults to refuse some medical treatments that could prolong their life.

The proposed legislation would put so-called advance care directives, or "living wills", on a statutory footing.

One-quarter of Irish doctors say they have come across such wills, which outline any unwanted medical interventions.

The LRC says these doctors currently have to make decisions without any legal framework.

It also says its proposals would not affect the existing law prohibiting euthanasia or assisted suicide.