The Irish abortion referendum: How a Citizens’ Assembly helped to break years of political deadlock

The Irish abortion referendum: How a Citizens’ Assembly helped to break years of political deadlock

Michela Palese
Posted on the 29th May 2018

In a historic referendum on Friday, the Irish electorate voted with a resounding Yes in favour of removing the Eighth Amendment (article 40.3.3) from the Constitution.

Citizens were asked whether or not to replace the Eighth Amendment, which banned abortion in almost all circumstances by recognising the constitutional right to life of the unborn, with a provision enabling the Oireachtas (the Irish Parliament) to regulate the termination of pregnancy by law.

With a turnout of 64%, all constituencies bar Donegal voted in favour of repealing.

Continued: https://www.electoral-reform.org.uk/the-irish-abortion-referendum-how-a-citizens-assembly-helped-to-break-years-of-political-deadlock/