Legislation:
TDs have been calling for a repeal of the 8th amendment after the government introduced the referendum bill this morning.
The Department of Health has also published a policy paper outlining what new laws the government will try to bring in if the 8th amendment is repealed.
The policy paper is largely as expected.
Access to abortion without restriction for up to 12 weeks.
Terminations to be allowed after that in cases of fatal foetal abnormality, and when there’s a risk to the life, health or mental health of the mother.
The government also wants conscientious objection for medical practitioners who don’t want to carry out abortions.
And a cooling off period where a woman will have to wait 2 or 3 days after seeking an abortion to get one.
Health Minister Simon Harris says these laws would be a big change.
A Dáil debate on the issue is continuing this afternoon.
Rally:
Meanwhile, buses from the North West and right around the country are expected to bring people to a major rally in support of saving the 8th amendment this weekend.
The All Ireland Rally for Life taking place tomorrow in Dublin according to the Save the 8th Campaign.
They state that doctors will be asked to carry out abortions up to three months yet they have not yet been informed on how this process would work at all.
Bernie O’Hara, a pro-life campaigner in Leitrim is one of those who will be heading to Dublin tomorrow.
