Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 19 October 2021
167. Deputy Joan Collins asked the Minister for Health when he will introduce the legislation for safe access zones to ensure persons can access reproductive health services in safety with dignity and with the right to privacy. [50774/21]
Amharc ar fhreagraI would like to assure the Deputy that I am committed to ensuring safe access to termination of pregnancy services. The issue is included in the Programme for Government Our Shared Future (2020), and it remains an ongoing priority. I plan to have proposals for safe access on the legislative programme as soon as possible.
For your information, since services under the Health (Regulation of Termination of Pregnancy) Act 2018 commenced in January 2019, there has been a limited number of reports of protests or any other actions relating to termination of pregnancy. This is an extremely positive development, suggesting that termination of pregnancy services have bedded in relatively smoothly to date and are becoming a normal part of the Irish healthcare system, in line with Government policy. In addition, it is likely that the settings in which services are being offered – in general practice and in maternity hospitals – have contributed to protecting patient privacy. However, we are aware of reports of some protests which have caused distress to those accessing and providing services.
My Department is in regular contact with the HSE and has liaised with An Garda Síochána on safe access to services. The Garda National Protective Services Bureau issued a notice to all Garda stations raising awareness about the issue. It directed that any protests be monitored, and breaches of existing law dealt with.
