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10/12/2014
Human Rights Commission To Challenge Abortion Laws
The Northern Ireland Human Rights Commission has announced that it intends to issue legal proceedings in the High Court over the country's abortion legislation.
The Commission has notified the Department of Justice of its move to challenge the current law, which it views as a violation of human rights.
Termination of pregnancy is available in Northern Ireland only if it is necessary to preserve the life of a woman where there is a risk of a serious and adverse effect on her physical or mental health.
The Commission has said it will work to change the law so women and girls in Northern Ireland have the option of choosing abortion in circumstances of malformation of the foetus, rape or incest.
The move follows recent consultation published by the Department of Justice, which deals with cases of lethal foetal abnormality but requires public opinion on cases of sexual crime including rape and incest.
"The issues raised by this challenge are of public interest and the Commission recognises the sensitivities of this case," a statement said.
"Given the vulnerability of women and girls in these situations, the Commission considers it appropriate to use its powers and bring this legal challenge in its own name. It also reiterates the human rights obligation of the Northern Ireland Executive to provide adequate services to care for and support women and girls who choose to continue with a crisis pregnancy."
(IT/CD)
The Commission has notified the Department of Justice of its move to challenge the current law, which it views as a violation of human rights.
Termination of pregnancy is available in Northern Ireland only if it is necessary to preserve the life of a woman where there is a risk of a serious and adverse effect on her physical or mental health.
The Commission has said it will work to change the law so women and girls in Northern Ireland have the option of choosing abortion in circumstances of malformation of the foetus, rape or incest.
The move follows recent consultation published by the Department of Justice, which deals with cases of lethal foetal abnormality but requires public opinion on cases of sexual crime including rape and incest.
"The issues raised by this challenge are of public interest and the Commission recognises the sensitivities of this case," a statement said.
"Given the vulnerability of women and girls in these situations, the Commission considers it appropriate to use its powers and bring this legal challenge in its own name. It also reiterates the human rights obligation of the Northern Ireland Executive to provide adequate services to care for and support women and girls who choose to continue with a crisis pregnancy."
(IT/CD)
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