Stormont: Brandon Lewis exceeded powers in introducing abortion regulations

Stormont: Brandon Lewis exceeded powers in introducing abortion regulations
Legal adviser says it is doubtful legislation gives adequate protection to those opposed

April 26, 2020

The Northern Ireland Secretary Brandon Lewis exceeded his powers in introducing abortion regulations, Stormont’s chief legal adviser has said.

It is doubtful whether the legislation gives adequate European Convention on Human Rights-based protection to the rights of those opposed on religious or philosophical grounds, attorney general John Larkin QC added.

Continued: https://www.irishtimes.com/news/health/stormont-brandon-lewis-exceeded-powers-in-introducing-abortion-regulations-1.4238324

26.04.2020

European Convention on Human Rights

N. Ireland – Decriminalisation of abortion in North leads to confusion

Decriminalisation of abortion in North leads to confusion
Legislation due by end of March 2020 but the situation in the meantime is uncertain

Oct 22, 2019
Gerry Moriarty, Freya McClements

Abortion was decriminalised from midnight on Monday in Northern Ireland despite a last-ditch attempt by unionist Assembly members to override Westminster legislation.

Women who seek access to abortion in Northern Ireland will not be prosecuted, investigations of illegal abortions will no longer be pursued, and prosecutions currently under way will be halted.

Continued: https://www.irishtimes.com/news/politics/decriminalisation-of-abortion-in-north-leads-to-confusion-1.4058400

UK – Bill to give medical staff right to refuse role in abortions condemned

Bill to give medical staff right to refuse role in abortions condemned
Bill would expand rights of conscientious objection for healthcare professionals

Tim Wyatt
Wed 21 Mar 2018

Pro-choice groups have condemned an attempt to create new laws that would allow doctors and nurses to refuse to take part in abortions on moral grounds.

A private bill going through the House of Lords that would expand rights of conscientious objection for healthcare professionals has been dismissed as unnecessary by abortion providers and campaigners.

Continued: https://www.theguardian.com/uk-news/2018/mar/21/bill-to-give-medical-staff-right-to-refuse-role-in-abortions-condemned