Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 12 December 2019
213. Deputy Ruth Coppinger asked the Minister for Health the progress of legislation to create safe zones in the vicinity of places that provide for termination of pregnancies; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [52299/19]
View answerIt is my absolute intention that people can access termination of pregnancy services safely. I wish to assure women and healthcare staff that there is existing legislation in place to protect them and to protect patients.
My Department and An Garda Síochána have been closely monitoring the situation since termination of pregnancy services commenced in January this year.
As the Deputy is aware, my Department is conducting a targeted consultation on safe access to termination of pregnancy services. The consultation is ongoing as it is important that the experiences of service providers in both community and acute hospital settings are included.
