Conscientious objectors’ rights need protection

THE deep divide in public opinion on the abortion issue was reflected in the Dáil debate on the Government’s Regulation

of Termination of Pregnancy Bill. From reports on the recent meeting of the Irish College of General Practitioners, it is evident this divide is also present among doctors (‘Up to 50 GPs walk out of meeting over concerns about new abortion legislation’, Irish Independent, December 2).

While acknowledging the right of doctors to conscientious objection, Health Minister Simon Harris says that “women also have a right to healthcare”.

He dismisses the concerns of doctors who on grounds of conscience are unable to co-operate in any way with the provision of abortion services. He makes the outrageous suggestion “that a woman with an unwanted pregnancy would be shown the door or given the cold shoulder”.

The minister is also reported as saying “the people have spoken and the campaign is over”. Mr Harris should remember, however, that the people did not speak with one voice. For the 34pc who voted No, the campaign may indeed

be over, but their conscientious objection to abortion is not. The right of doctors and all healthcare staff, on grounds of conscience, not to have any hand, act or part in the provision of abortion services needs to be fully protected.

John Glennon

Hollywood, Co Wicklow