NWCI welcomes Minister Harris’s commitment to remote abortion access

Published: Friday, March 27, 2020

The National Women’s Council of Ireland (NWCI) welcomed Minister for Health Simon Harris’s Dail comments last night that women will be able to access remote abortion care from their healthcare providers.

Orla O’Connor, Director of NWCI said,

“Minister Harris’ comments are very welcome for women across Ireland who will need abortions during this time. Abortion care is time sensitive and we welcome the fact that access will be maintained throughout the COVID-19 outbreak.”

“Current practice requiring women to leave their homes for two face-to-face appointments contradicts advice to stay at home during the pandemic and scheduling these consultations may become increasingly difficult given demand for COVID-related care, especially for women who already face barriers in accessing healthcare, such as Traveller women, migrant women, and other marginalised groups.”

“The clarity provided by the Minister last night was very important and we are asking now that guidance be given to healthcare professionals to clarify this immediately and that these changes are communicated widely to women.”

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