Pro-Life actions - including supporting frightened girls and even simply praying - face being banned in Ireland.
The Safe Access Zones Bill passed by a huge majority on Thursday in the Dáil by 117 votes, with just ten pro-life TDs voting against the law. The plan will impose a 'no protests' buffer zone within 100 metres of abortion centres or hospitals where abortions are performed.
Only ten TDs voted against the Bill: Aontú’s Peadar Tóibín, and Independents Mattie McGrath, Danny Healy-Rae, Michael Healy-Rae, Peter Fitzpatrick, Noel Grealish, Michael Collins, Richard O'Donoghue, Seán Canney, and Michael Lowry.
The vote sees the Bill, which was presented to the Dáil at the end of June, pass the report and final stages in the Dáil. It means it will now proceed to the Seanad, where final statements on the Bill will be made.
Minister for Health Stephen Donnelly said tonight that the legislation was “a step closer” to becoming a reality, as he thanked those who supported and contributed to the Bill.
In the debate prior to the vote on Wednesday evening, a number of TDs voiced their concerns over what the legislation would mean for the right to protest. The liberal majority, however, rode roughshod over these legitimate concerns.
Another dark day for Ireland, and an even darker one for the unborn children who will die as a result. Just another reason why our fight against the violence and injustice of abortion must and will go on!