David Cullinane
Question:821. Deputy David Cullinane asked the Minister for Health the status and plans for advancing the safe access zones Bill; the legislative timeline; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36875/20]
View answerTuesday, 17 November 2020
Questions (821)
Written answers
As the Deputy will be aware, the Programme for Government Our Shared Future contains a commitment to “Establish exclusion zones around medical facilities”.
It was originally intended to provide for safe access to termination of pregnancy services in the Health (Regulation of Termination of Pregnancy) Act 2018. However, a number of legal issues were identified which necessitated further consideration and advice.
Women and healthcare staff should be assured that there is existing legislation in place to protect them and to protect patients. My Department has communicated with the HSE to advise on this legislation, and I understand that a communication issued to hospitals and GPs in this regard.
Ensuring access to services remains an ongoing priority for the Department of Health.