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news > tasmanian police drop death inquiry

Tasmanian Police Drop Death Inquiry

Tasmanian Police Drop Death Inquiry, July 19th, 2010.

The news was welcomed yesterday by Attorney-General Lara Giddings and Greens leader Nick McKim, who said their proposed new laws to legalise euthanasia would end confusion for police, doctors and families.

Voluntary euthanasia advocate and Melbourne doctor Rodney Syme was investigated by Tasmania Police over the death of Allens Rivulet man Rob Cordover.

Mr Cordover, also a passionate supporter of euthanasia, died surrounded by his family in June last year after a nine-month battle with motor neurone disease.

Dr Syme admitted helping Mr Cordover to take his life by giving him advice and medication.

His admissions to the Mercury last year prompted Kingston detective Scott Kregor to travel to Melbourne to interview Dr Syme.

But Det Sgt Kregor told the Mercury last week he would not be taking further action.

Dr Syme said that was the first confirmation he had received that he would not be charged.

"It doesn't surprise me that nothing transpired, I don't think the authorities want to take up the cudgels," Dr Syme said.

Mr Cordover's widow Nica was relieved.

"I'm really pleased because Dr Syme is one of the few doctors who showed Robert real respect by actually listening to him, giving him advice and helping him," Mrs Cordover said.

Ms Giddings said the new laws she was drafting with Mr McKim would "help to remove any confusion or grey areas ... for medical practitioners, families and law enforcement authorities".

Mr McKim said he was glad Dr Syme would not be charged.

"The uncertainty around Dr Syme's situation is a clear argument for a change in the law to allow terminally ill people to choose to die a dignified death at a time of their choosing," he said.

The legislation to legalise euthanasia is expected to come before Parliament next year after a period of public consultation.

Sally Glaetzer - The Mercury

Robert Cordover with his daughter and grandson shortly before he died.

It was almost exactly one year to the day since Mr Cordover's death that police decided not to charge Dr Rodney Syme for giving him advice and medication.