Feel sorry for the guy that he felt that was his only way out. Seems like physician assisted suicide would have been far less jolting on his loved ones. It's sad when you can not have a way to end your life on your terms in a dignified manner.

On another note.

While in Ireland Egan will be most remembered for attending a Sinn Fein annual convention right after 9/11.

Because the visit took place directly in the aftermath of 9/11 Sinn Fein was under pressure on the terrorism front. Egan's presence signaled that the Bush administration was still determined to deal with Sinn Fein despite 9/11.

What's this, conservatives negotiating directly with terrorists? Seems like all the noise from conservatives regarding direct political talks with terrorists is merely posturing and grandstanding for political gain regardless of outright hypocrisy.

Maybe the government ought to give out a suicide kit when you turn 60.

Jay, maybe you can be given a brain so you can give an intelligent response.

I have seen people die in their homes, surrounded by family, receiving treatment only for their symptoms (pain medication) on Hospice programs.
I have seen people die in the hospital hooked up to respirators, IV's in their arms, blood pressure cuffs on their arms, programmed to work automatically, and they are often tied to their beds because they keep trying to pull these things out.
~~~~~
which death is dignified? At home people are often smiling, welcoming those spirits who have come to guide them. There is a spiritual aura present that profoundly changed my life.
In the hospital there is a sense of relief when resuscitation attempts fail.

@Jay:
They could issue left over government rifles instead.