Limited abortion rights in the Republic

After strenuous debate, a bill has now been passed in Ireland to allow abortion under limited circumstances. This being if the woman is thought to be suicidal if pregnancy continues, which has to be verified by three doctors, or if the woman’s life is at risk if the pregnancy continues.

This step in the direction of pro-choice is a colossal step for a majority Catholic country. Even with this majority and the strong opposition, members voted 127 to 31 in favour of passing this Bill.

There has been and still is much opposition for the passing of this Bill. However if the right to abortion can help save lives that otherwise would be lost, we must do our best to allow this right to everyone. The disastrous case of Savita Halappanavar has fueled this controversial debate, that no woman should have to lose her life when measures can be put in place to save her.

With emphasis on reproductive rights as proclaimed to be, the recognition of the basic right of all couples and individuals to decide freely and responsibly the number, spacing and timing of their children and to have the information and means to do so, and the right to attain the highest standard of sexual and reproductive health. They also include the right of all to make decisions concerning reproduction free of discrimination, coercion and violence.

As was quoted at the Family Planning Summit by Africa, “No woman should die giving life.”