Eighth Amendment imposes horrible suffering

SIR, At the March of Choice in Dublin on September 30 I was humbled to carry a white rose from TFMR Ireland, an organisation of parents who have received a diagnosis of a fatal or severe foetal anomaly during pregnancy. The roses, carried by many on the march, remembered their babies who had died.

This group is advocating for the repeal of the Eighth Amendment as it outlaws couples wishing to end their pregnancy in these circumstances at a time of their choosing. Currently, they are forced to continue a pregnancy which already or soon will end in a heart-breaking death, or to travel to receive medical care elsewhere.

Many women and couples, in accordance with their principles, choose to carry a child with a fatal or life limiting condition to full term, and experience considerable love and meaning from a tragic situation. However, to enforce this option on couples and families is unconscionable.

When the referendum on the Eighth Amendment occurs, I will vote to repeal because those who have suffered horribly under it have asked this of me. Sincerely,

Dr Richard Scriven, Ballinlough, Cork.