Abortion Services Provision

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 18 October 2016

Tuesday, 18 October 2016

Ceisteanna (85)

Louise O'Reilly

Ceist:

85. Deputy Louise O'Reilly asked the Minister for Health the action his Department is taking to ensure that information relating to termination of pregnancy that is being provided is factual; the way the regulation of information will be ensured if agencies dispensing information are not part of a regulated profession under the auspices of his Department; if he has had any discussions with the Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment in respect of the regulation of advertisements by agencies, groups and others to ensure the factuality of information provided; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30500/16]

Freagraí scríofa

Minister for Health

The Regulation of Information (Services Outside the State for Termination of Pregnancies) Act, 1995 defines the conditions under which information relating to abortion services lawfully available in another state might be made available in Ireland. Sections (3) and (5) of the 1995 Act provide that information on termination of pregnancy must be "..truthful and objective" , section (10) provides that a breach of section (3) or section (5)is an offence. If an individual(s) considers that information provided under the Act is not truthful and objective then they may refer the matter to the Garda for investigation.

The role of the Minister or Communications, Climate Action and Environment in connection to advertising only relates to the broadcasting sector and this area is regulated by the Broadcasting Authority of Ireland.

Question No. 86 answered with Question No. 44.