Health Committee to hear from experts on abortion provision in Ireland

The agenda for the meeting is as follows:

1. The development of clinical guidelines in light of the impending introduction of abortion services in Ireland.
Representatives from the Medical Council, the Irish College of General Practitioners, the Institute of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists.

2. The licensing of abortion medication in light of the impending introduction of abortion services in Ireland.
Representatives from the Health Products Regulatory Authority.

Chairperson of the Health Committee, Dr Michael Harty TD said today, “The provision of abortion in Ireland will require structures to be put in place in order to ensure a safe and efficient service. There is much work to be done to clarify how abortion services are to be provided, especially arrangements for a GP-led service up to 12 weeks of pregnancy.”

“Resourcing and conscientious objection are just a few of the issues likely to be discussed tomorrow in the first session of our meeting. In the second session, we will turn to the matter of abortion medication, particularly abortion pills, which, though they have been shown to be highly effective and safe particularly when used in early pregnancy, can cause complications in some cases. Abortion services must be delivered as part of a safe and comprehensive service that meets women’s needs.”

The meeting will begin at 9am in Committee Room 3, Leinster House