Ireland: No protection for citizens to decide abortion

Fears are mounting that those who will consider holding a referendum on abortion will be targeted by pro-life campaigners

by Sarah McInerney

August 14 2016, 12:01am, The Sunday Times (UK)
Fears are mounting that those who will consider holding a referendum on abortion will be targeted by pro-life campaigners

Members of the citizens’ assembly, which will consider holding a referendum on abortion, are to have their names published on its website, despite fears that they could be targeted by pro-life and pro-choice campaigners.

A number of TDs have expressed alarm that the 99 members of the public who will be chosen to take part will come under pressure by lobby groups on both sides of the abortion debate.

Kate O’Connell, a Fine Gael TD in Dublin Bay South, said they should be protected by the government. “It would be very difficult for any private individual if the pro-choice or pro-life campaign were camped outside their house when they get up in the morning,” she said. “That can’t be allowed to happen. It’s just not acceptable. I think it should be nearly like a jury, where they are protected.”

Source: The Times, UK