Health Services

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 11 October 2022

Tuesday, 11 October 2022

Ceisteanna (661)

Mattie McGrath

Ceist:

661. Deputy Mattie McGrath asked the Minister for Health if his proposed exclusion zones of 100 metres surrounding abortion-providing buildings would have the impact of banning a pro-life march, such as an annual march (details supplied); if the high volume of potential exclusion zones in a compact area such as Dublin city centre would effectively result in banning any future pro-life marches in a scenario if such a march were to pass along a public thoroughfare which was within the reach of one of the designated 100-metre zones; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [49687/22]

Freagraí scríofa

Minister for Health

I am committed to ensuring that anyone needing a termination of pregnancy can access services in safety, and with privacy and dignity.

Safe Access Zones Legislation has been prioritised in the Government’s Autumn Legislative Programme, and the General Scheme of a Bill was referred to the Health Committee for Pre-Legislative Scrutiny on 19th September 2022.

In advancing this legislation, careful consideration has been given to developing proposals that balance a range of rights, including the right to protest, while ensuring the legitimate aim to protect the right of a woman to access termination of pregnancy services with privacy and dignity is achieved.

Officials in my Department are engaging intensively with the Office of the Attorney General and relevant stakeholders to progress this legislation as expeditiously as possible.