Donnelly confirms introduction of 100m safe zones at abortion clinics

The Minister for Health has received government approval to introduce Safe Access Zones around healthcare services providing termination of pregnancy services. 

Minister Stephen Donnelly today (June 27) announced approval of the Health (Termination of Pregnancy Services) (Safe Access Zones) Bill 2023, which will ensure that anyone needing a termination can access services safely with dignity and privacy. 

The Cabinet approved proposals to legislation for the designation of Safe Access Zones last July, with the draft legislation proceeding to the Joint Oireachtas Committee on Health in September 2022. 

The Committee published its report on Pre-Legislative Scrutiny (PLS) last month, with officials from the Department of Health working with the Office of the Attorney General and other relevant stakeholders to draft the text of the Bill approved by government today. 

Speaking about the much-awaited Bill, Minister Donnelly said, "Nobody should be harassed, insulted or intimidated in any way, or have their decision to access lawfully available healthcare services subject to attempted unsolicited influence by strangers.

"I would like to acknowledge the commitment shown by my Ministerial colleagues, officials in my department and the Gardaí, all of whom worked together to get this Bill to this point. 

"I would also like to acknowledge and thank colleagues particularly in the Department of Justice and the Office of the Attorney General for their significant contribution to the development of this Bill."

The legislation will create Safe Access Zones of 100 metres from an entrance or exit to a premises where obstetricians/ gynaecologists and general practitioners provide services. 

This will include consulting rooms, family planning clinics and women’s health clinics. 

Safe Access Zones will also apply to hospitals that provide acute inpatient services within the meaning of Section 51 of the Health Act 1970.

Within those Safe Access Zones, attempting to impede access or influence decisions in relation to termination of pregnancy services will be prohibited. 

Minister Donnelly reportedly plans to initiate the Bill as soon as possible.