Abortion consultation was 'one-sided'

Reforms 'ignore humanity of unborn child'

A consultation which shows overwhelming support for far-reaching abortion reform in the Island was aimed at those who want the law changed.

That is the belief of a campaign group after the survey attracted more than three and half thousand responses (3644), including submissions from medical and support organisations.

Eighty seven per cent of those who took part feel women in the Island should have the choice to request an abortion up to 14 weeks after falling pregnant.

HEAR – Humanity and Equality in Abortion Reform – has branded the draft reforms, brought to parliament by Ramsey MHK Dr Alex Allinson, as ‘regressive and ignoring the humanity of the unborn child’.

Sue Richardson says she’s not surprised at the consultation findings but is hopeful the issue will be explored by a committee, as suggested by the Health Minister earlier this year.

BA: A spokesman for CALM, which is calling for abortion reforms, will be speaking live in Mandate after 8 o’clock this morning.