Sinn Fein vote to back abortion

SINN Fein has voted “decisively” to liberalise abortion law across Ireland.

Party members overwhelmingly said the procedure should be provided through a GP-led service for a “limited gestational period”.

They represent an influential voice in politics north and south of the Irish border.

Vice president Michelle O’Neill said: “Sinn Fein refuses to hide. It will address this issue with compassion and will show the leadership that is required.”

The poll of grass-roots republi- cans recognised last month’s referendum decision of the people of the Irish Republic to overturn a constitutional provision which outlawed most terminations.

It was the latest conservative principle to be abandoned in what the Irish premier termed the culmination of a “quiet revolution” in social attitudes.

Some opposition to reform was expressed during Sinn Fein’s annual meeting in Belfast. Wexford councillor Oisin O’Connell said it placed the value of the unborn at “zero”.

Following the passing of the reforming motion, senior party members said loosening restrictions north of the border was the next priority.

The motion endorsed by delegates at the ard fheis (party conference) said the procedure should be provided through a GP-led service in a clinical context as determined by law and licensing practice for a limited gestational period. No period was fixed to allow for changes in medical advice; debate surrounds when a baby is viable outside the womb.