Abortion Services

Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 2 November 2011

Wednesday, 2 November 2011

Questions (456)

Anne Ferris

Question:

468 Deputy Anne Ferris asked the Minister for Health if he will provide a detailed explanation of the reasons each of the six recommendations relating to abortion made by European countries during Ireland’s examination under the universal periodic review by the UN Human Rights Council in October 2011 was rejected, in particular the United Kingdom’s recommendation that legislation be introduced and the recommendation of the Netherlands calling for the introduction of a coherent legal framework and the provision of adequate services; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32103/11]

Written answers

Minister for Health (Deputy James Reilly)

In relation to recommendations on abortion made by European countries during Ireland's examination under the Universal Periodic Review, the Government is committed to the establishment of an Expert Group on the ABC v Ireland judgment to make recommendations on how this matter should be properly addressed. It would be inappropriate for the Government to pre-empt the recommendations of the Expert Group at this stage.

The Department is in the process of carrying out the preliminary work to facilitate the establishment of the Expert Group. As set out in the Action Plan submitted to the Committee of Ministers of the Council of Europe, it is intended that it will be set up by November 2011.