ABORTION REFERENDUM: We asked Wicklow’s TDs and councillors where they stand

Myles Buchanan and Mary Fogarty contacted as many of our local politicans as possible and asked each of them: What’s your position on the Government’s proposal? These are their responses

Following deep consideration of all the issues involved and the Government decisions, I am not in favour of repealing the eighth amendment as my conscience dictates that every abortion ends a human life and I do not see any safeguards for the unborn in the Government proposals. I hope for a fair and respectful debate in the coming months. very informative. It’s clear that this is not just about abortion, but access to women’s health. The eighth amendment has constructed consultants from providing proper healthcare to many women. The fact is that we have been exporting this issue instead of dealing with it here. On those grounds, I will be fully supporting the repeal.

As the wording as to what it is intended to put in it’s place is not yet decided on, and I hear it won’t be for a few weeks, I could not decide in such a vacuum as to whether I’m for or against it’s repeal. I will have no problem stating my view when this wording becomes available. We have it, our female citizens get on a plane or boat every day to procure it and we expect the women of Ireland to continue going to England or other centres in Europe, with no back-up health or emotional support, with no legal rights. demonstrated that it is absolutely critical that women be supported.

Abortion is a very difficult decision that no woman would take lightly. It’s been 35 years since women in this country were given an opportunity to be heart on this and it’s very important that we are heard.