3.3.2022 All Party Oireachtas Life and Dignity Group event on current issues surrounding aborton

The All Party Oireachtas Life and Dignity Group hosted an event on 3 March 2022 which covered pertinent issues surrounding the present operation of legal abortion in Ireland. The Group was spurred on to organise this meeting due to recent events such as the ongoing three-year review of the 2018 Abortion Act and the recent developments on telemedicine.

Chaired by independent Senator Sharon Keogan, the meeting brought together various representatives from both the Dáil and Seanad. They received an update on the latest developments with the three-year review of the Health (Regulation of Termination of Pregnancy) Act 2018. The controversial appointment of the review’s chair was detailed and proposals advocated for consideration within the review process, including the provision of pain relief for unborn babies in late-term abortions and a more comprehensive means of gathering statistical information.

Dr Calum Miller addressed the event on the topic of telemedicine and its demonstrated risks and dangers.

Katie Fenton of Students For Life detailed the research undertaken by her group into the operation of the HSE MyOptions hotline. She discussed the necessity for an overhaul of the hotline to ensure going forward it provides full and comprehensive information on supports available for women who want to continue with their unplanned pregnancies.

Senator Keogan thanked the guests for their presentations and moderated a productive and informative Questions and Answers session.
The event helped to generate greater interest in the issues currently surrounding the operation of legal abortion in Ireland amongst parliamentarians. It is hoped it will stimulate debate and provide an opportunity for Oireachtas members to reflect on some of the issues raised.