Carol Nolan (Laois-Offaly, Independent)
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252. To ask the Minister for Health the status of commitments to introduce exclusion zones; if he has had further consultation with the Garda Commissioner on the matter; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27625/20]

Stephen Donnelly (Wicklow, Fianna Fail)
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As the Deputy will be aware, the Programme for Government Our Shared Futurecontains a commitment to “Establish exclusion zones around medical facilities”.

It was originally intended to provide for safe access to termination of pregnancy services in the Health (Regulation of Termination of Pregnancy) Act 2018. However, a number of legal issues were identified which necessitated further consideration and advice.

Women and healthcare staff should be assured that there is existing legislation in place to protect them and to protect patients.  My Department has communicated with the HSE to advise on this legislation, and I understand that a communication issued to hospitals and GPs in this regard.

Ensuring access to services remains an ongoing priority for the Department of Health.