Northern Ireland defeats bid to allow abortion in cases of severe fetal deformity
February 11, 2016
Lawmakes in Northern Ireland have defeated a proposal that would have allowed for legal abortion in cases in which the unborn child was diagnosed with a fatal physical defect.
After a heated debate, the Northern Ireland Assembly voted 59 to 40 against the proposal. Proponents had argued that it was merciful to end the lives of babies who could not survive-- or could not live for long-- outside the womb. Pro-life advocates replied that merciful treatment would mean providing the best care for the child during its short life.
Abortion is legal in Northern Ireland today only in cases when the pregnancy threatens the life of the mother or could cause severe and lasting damage to her health.
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Further information:
- Abortion: MLAs vote against legalisation in fatal foetal abnormality cases (BBC)
- Northern Ireland: Catholic bishops oppose move to allow abortion in cases of severe fetal defect (CWN, 2/9)
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