The Irish Family Planning Association (IFPA) has criticised the retention of criminal sanction in the case of unlawful abortions in the newly-published abortion Bill.

It said that the Protection of Life During Pregnancy Bill contains significant amendments which help to clarify issues for women who may be impacted.

However, it was critical of the retention of criminal sanction that may apply in cases of unlawful abortions.
 
IFPA Chief Executive Niall Behan said: "the inclusion of the maximum penalty of 14 years imprisonment for having or assisting in an unlawful abortion is ineffective, disproportionate and inconsistent with the State’s obligations under the European Convention on Human Rights, and international human rights law generally."

Meanwhile, the National Women's Council of Ireland there should be an explicit duty on doctors to treat in a medical emergency, regardless of any conscientious objection.

Govt publishes abortion Bill