‘Do Not Resuscitate’ requests will get a stronger legal basis when a new law comes into force.

People who declare they do not want CPR, or further medical procedures as they near the end of their lives, will have firmer legal backing for their wishes when the Assisted Decision Making (Capacity) Act 2015 finally commences.

The new law, signed by President Higgins almost four years ago, continues to undergo legislative work. It was reported in the Sunday Independent that it is hoped it will be ready to commence near the end of next year.

People already have the right to make an Advance Healthcare Directive (AHD) indicating what medical treatment they do not want, in the event of them losing their capacity to make such decisions later in their lives. AHDs will be simpler to operate under the new law.