02/01/2013

Minister Of State Calls For 'Rational' Debate On Abortion

The Minister of State has called for a "rational and respectful" debate on abortion.

Lucinda Creighton made the call following a number of emails and letters she received from groups in favour of and against abortion as vile, disgusting and horrific.

She added that she believes she is not unique in receiving such communications.

The Government is preparing new legislation on abortion giving effect to the X Case judgment.

The Supreme Court ruled in 1992 that abortion was permitted when a woman's life was at risk, but successive governments have avoided legislating for it.

The death in October of Savita Halappanavar, who died following a miscarriage and was refused an abortion at University Hospital Galway, has intensified the debate.

(H/GK)


Related Irish News Stories
Click here for the latest headlines.

12 March 2024
Communities Minister Must Prioritise Anti-Poverty Measures
The Alliance Party has criticised Communities Minister, Gordon Lyons, for "not prioritising anti-poverty measures". MLA Kellie Armstrong said the Minister's inaction was "disappointing" in light of a new report showing that one in five children in NI are living in relative poverty.
21 March 2024
Call For Education On Violence Against Women And Girls
The Education Minister, Paul Givan, has been challenged by the SDLP on the proposed introduction of mandatory education around violence against women and girls in schools.
14 March 2024
Ministers Praise Critical Work Of Ireland Funds
The First Minister and deputy First Minister have praised the work of Ireland Funds, highlighting its critical role in promoting and supporting peace. Michelle O'Neill and Emma Little-Pengelly, speaking at the Ireland Funds Gala in Washington, welcomed the positive and real impact made across society by the philanthropic body.
13 March 2024
SDLP Launches Petition For Restoration Of Integrated Schools Funding
The SDLP has launched a petition calling for the restoration of funding for new buildings at ten integrated schools across NI. The petition follows the recent announcement of the withdrawal of this funding as part of the financial package agreed between Executive parties and the UK Government.
13 March 2024
First And Deputy First Minister To Celebrate St Patrick's Day In US
The First and Deputy First Minister will travel to the United States this week for a series of St Patrick's Day engagements in Washington DC. The visit will focus on showcasing the local economy and develop key relationships and networks across the U.S. Ministers will attend the NI Bureau Breakfast, Ireland Funds Gala, a meeting with the U.S.