Carol Nolan (Laois-Offaly, Independent)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

623. To ask the Minister for Health further to Parliamentary Question No. 820 of 18 October 2022, if he will outline the way that he concluded that the terminology used represents the most commonly understood; if he will outline the empirical analysis or study that was undertaken to reach this conclusion; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53012/22]

Stephen Donnelly (Wicklow, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

Safe Access Zones Legislation has been prioritised in the Government’s Autumn Legislative Programme, and officials in my Department are engaging intensively with the Office of the Attorney General and relevant stakeholders to progress this legislation as expeditiously as possible.

Various terminology has been used interchangeably in respect of the concept of safe access zones. The terminology adopted for this legislation represents the most commonly understood.

‘Safe Access Zones’ is the term used in the neighbouring jurisdictions of Scotland and Northern Ireland when referring to similar purpose legislation, (or proposed legislation). It has also been used to refer to analogous legislation in parts of Australia.

Moreover, the term “safe access zones” most accurately captures the purpose and intent of this legislation, which is to ensure that anyone needing a termination of pregnancy can access services in safety, and with privacy and dignity.

The draft legislation defines safe access zones and associated prohibited conduct and these aspects of the legislation outline the meaning and purpose of same.