The call was made by Women’s Health in Ireland – a cross-party, cross-professional group established to support the implementation of the recommendations of the Joint Oireachtas Committee on the Eight Amendment – at a final event yesterday to repeal the Eighth Amendment.
During the event, spokespersons from each of the main political parties, in particular health spokespersons and members of the Oireachtas Eighth Amendment Committee, led by Minister for Health Simon Harris, reinforced the importance of a ‘yes’ vote on Friday.
The Minister and Party spokespersons were flanked by other cross-party Oireachtas members who have been campaigning in support for repeal of the Eight Amendment, as well as for the introduction of ancillary measures to improve access to comprehensive sexual and reproductive healthcare in Ireland.
The group called on voters, especially those who have not made up their mind, to support the removal of the Eighth Amendment if they have any doubt as to its appropriateness in the Constitution.
Speaking as convenors of the Women’s Health in Ireland group, Deputy Kate O’Connell said: “The ground swell of elected representatives who have come to campaign and work collaboratively – across traditional party lines – to repeal the Eighth Amendment is a testimony to those who have shared their personal stories.
Senator Ivana Bacik added: "It’s a testimony to the medics who have told us frankly how they have felt under supported in delivering appropriate health care for women; and it’s a message to women and girls that their health and wellbeing is – after decades of public debate – more appropriately dealt with in the doctor’s room, rather than in our Constitution.”
Speaking at the event yesterday included Deputy Kate O’Connell of Fine Gael; Deputy Timmy Dooley of Fianna Fáil, Deputy Louise O’Reilly of Sinn Féin, Deputy Jan O’Sullivan of Labour; Deputy Catherine Martin of the Green Party, Independent Senator Lynn Ruane and Deputy Catherine Murphy of the Green Party.