It is unacceptable that we are learning about these major deficiencies in our abortion service via leaks to the media
Health Minister Stephen Donnelly must immediately publish a review into abortion services which has found it could “collapse” at any moment, according to Social Democrats Health Spokesperson Róisín Shortall.
“A leaked copy of a review into abortion services, published in the Irish Times today, has stated the system is “not sustainable” and could “collapse”.
“The review has highlighted serious issues related to the inequitable postcode lottery that exists around the country when women try to access abortion services. A lack of consistency in the interpretation of guidance on conscientious objection is also raised as a concern.
“The author of the review, Dr Deirdre Duffy, states there are documented cases of women “timing out” of access to abortion services because of a lack of staff and facilities. This should be a matter of grave concern for the Minister.
“It is also notable that there is said to be “outright confusion” about the number of GPs who are actually providing abortion services. Last year, it was revealed that only 10pc of GPs were providing the service – but we don’t know if this number has decreased further.
“Alarmingly, when it comes to life and death situations – in which abortion is sanctioned on the grounds of a risk to the life of a woman or serious harm – there is further confusion about pathways.
“According to the review there is no stable pathway for access under this ground – despite this ground of access being available to women for decades.
“It is unacceptable that we are learning about these major deficiencies in our abortion service via leaks to the media. The Minister has the completed review on his desk. He must now publish it immediately – and advise on how he intends to remedy these major problems with the service.
“Media report last week had suggested a new Oireachtas committee may be established to examine the review. This would be an exercise in delay and time wasting. The Health Committee is long established and ready to take up the job of analysing this review, if needs be.”
April 3, 2023
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