Ruth Coppinger (Dublin West, Solidarity) | Oireachtas source

The abortion legislation is being drafted and a lot of us do not want to table amendments because we want to see it being progressed. However, vital issues have to be incorporated. There is speculation that three visits will be required to be made by a person who may be pregnant and wants to have an abortion - two at the beginning and one afterwards. That is completely unnecessary and it would add to the cost. It would also be unnecessary medically. It must also be trans-inclusive, as we are drafting legislation in an era in which there is better understanding of gender. Conscientious objection must not prevent any pregnant woman from having access in a region or a geographical location. There should be an opting out, rather than an opting in. On the issue of safety, pregnant women in hospitals are being picketed. This will certainly be an issue once we legalise abortion. We have to be mindful of the need for a buffer and safety zone around hospitals, clinics and GP surgeries, not to prevent industrial action or legitimate protest but to protect people's safety, including staff.

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