Irish president signs law allowing legal abortion
July 30, 2013
Ireland’s President Michael Higgins has signed a bill ending the country’s ban on abortion.
Higgins had the option of signing the bill into law or referring it to the nation’s Supreme Court for a ruling on its constitutionality. The law is certain to be challenged by pro-life plaintiffs, who cite its conflict with the constitutional guarantee of the right to life.
The new law, which won overwhelming approval in the Irish parliament despite strong opposition from the Catholic Church, allows for abortion when the mother’s life is judged to be in danger. The law explicitly allows for abortion if the mother threatens suicide.
For all current news, visit our News home page.
Further information:
- President Higgins signs Protection of Life During Pregnancy Bill into law (RTE)
- Ireland legalizes abortion (CWN, 7/12)
All comments are moderated. To lighten our editing burden, only current donors are allowed to Sound Off. If you are a current donor, log in to see the comment form; otherwise please support our work, and Sound Off!
