The Social Democrats today called for a Yes vote in next month’s referendum, saying that repeal of the Eighth Amendment would pave the way for a doctor-led, regulated and safe system of healthcare for women and girls.
The Soc Dems Yes for Repeal campaign launch took place this morning in three locations: Grafton Street in Dublin; Grand Parade in Cork; and on Eyre Square in Galway.
Speaking at the launch of the campaign posters on Grafton Street, party co-leader Catherine Murphy TD said:
“I spent three months listening to expert testimony from across the medical and legal profession as a member of the Dáil Committee on the Eighth Amendment. The evidence was clear – the Eighth Amendment hurts women.
“I’ve also heard the heart-breaking stories from families faced with incredibly emotional and difficult decisions who were denied the opportunity to do what was right for their family.
“Removing the Eighth Amendment does not mean we would all make the same decision when faced with a crisis. What it would do is allow a woman with the support of her doctor to make the decision that is right for her in her own family circumstances.”
Party co-leader Róisín Shortall TD added:
“Voting yes to remove the amendment will allow for a doctor-led, regulated and safe system of healthcare for women and girls. It means women could access abortion care in Ireland, without having to travel abroad or use pills from the internet without any medical supervision or support.
“We have to work towards a system of care where women and their doctors can make the right decisions for themselves and their families in a compassionate and medically safe environment.”
Social Democrats members and activists around the country are canvassing locally, including with Together4Yes. The party is strongly encouraging voters to check the electoral register, and make sure their voices are heard in referendum, which is now just five weeks away.
ENDS
21 April 2018