Menu
18/10/2012
Attorney General Calls For Abortion Inquiry
The Northern Ireland Attorney General has called for an investigation into the controversial new abortion clinic opening in Belfast this morning.
John Larkin has demanded an inquiry into the Marie Stopes clinic which opened today and which has become the first ever private clinic in Northern Ireland to offer abortions.
The clinic has seen groups of pro-life protesters outside its doors this morning as it prepares to open for the first time.
But Marie Stopes has confirmed it will only be operating within the strict legal framework of Northern Irish law.
The rest of the UK is covered by an Abortion Act, whereas Northern Ireland is not. In England, Scotland and Wales, abortions may be carried out within 24 weeks, whereas in Northern Ireland, only a nine-week gestation period is allowed.
Abortions in Northern Ireland may only be carried out if there is considered to be substantial risk to the mother’s mental or physical wellbeing caused by the pregnancy.
The law remains vague due to there being no current legislation; only an exception drawn up in 1945 which allows abortions under extreme circumstances.
Attorney General John Larkin is the chief legal advisor to the Stormont executive.
He has written to the Stormont Justice Committee asking for an investigation into the operations of the Belfast clinic.
Mr Larkin is unable to intervene in an official capacity, but as a guardian of the rule of law, he can become engaged.
He said he would be happy to give assistance, including acting as counsel and questioning witnesses on their behalf.
Marie Stopes has said the health professionals in the clinic will be from Northern Ireland and the views of the woman's own GP will be taken into consideration.
Pro-choice campaign group Abortion Rights has welcomed the opening of the clinic.
(IT)
John Larkin has demanded an inquiry into the Marie Stopes clinic which opened today and which has become the first ever private clinic in Northern Ireland to offer abortions.
The clinic has seen groups of pro-life protesters outside its doors this morning as it prepares to open for the first time.
But Marie Stopes has confirmed it will only be operating within the strict legal framework of Northern Irish law.
The rest of the UK is covered by an Abortion Act, whereas Northern Ireland is not. In England, Scotland and Wales, abortions may be carried out within 24 weeks, whereas in Northern Ireland, only a nine-week gestation period is allowed.
Abortions in Northern Ireland may only be carried out if there is considered to be substantial risk to the mother’s mental or physical wellbeing caused by the pregnancy.
The law remains vague due to there being no current legislation; only an exception drawn up in 1945 which allows abortions under extreme circumstances.
Attorney General John Larkin is the chief legal advisor to the Stormont executive.
He has written to the Stormont Justice Committee asking for an investigation into the operations of the Belfast clinic.
Mr Larkin is unable to intervene in an official capacity, but as a guardian of the rule of law, he can become engaged.
He said he would be happy to give assistance, including acting as counsel and questioning witnesses on their behalf.
Marie Stopes has said the health professionals in the clinic will be from Northern Ireland and the views of the woman's own GP will be taken into consideration.
Pro-choice campaign group Abortion Rights has welcomed the opening of the clinic.
(IT)
Related Northern Ireland News Stories
Click here for the latest headlines.
12 November 2012
Pro-Choice Rally Held Over Marie Stopes
A pro-choice rally has been held in Belfast city centre over the weekend following the opening of the first private clinic to offer abortions in Northern Ireland. The Marie Stopes clinic opened in the city in October, amid a storm of pro-life protests.
Pro-Choice Rally Held Over Marie Stopes
A pro-choice rally has been held in Belfast city centre over the weekend following the opening of the first private clinic to offer abortions in Northern Ireland. The Marie Stopes clinic opened in the city in October, amid a storm of pro-life protests.
20 March 2002
The Eye Clinic creates jobs for Belfast
The Eye Clinic has opened its first branch in Northern Ireland, creating 18 new jobs for Belfast. The optometry chain, which is a part of the Health Clinic Group, has opened a two-storey practice in Donegall Place as part of a nationwide expansion plan, which has also seen new clinics open in London and Norwich.
The Eye Clinic creates jobs for Belfast
The Eye Clinic has opened its first branch in Northern Ireland, creating 18 new jobs for Belfast. The optometry chain, which is a part of the Health Clinic Group, has opened a two-storey practice in Donegall Place as part of a nationwide expansion plan, which has also seen new clinics open in London and Norwich.
15 October 2012
Poots: Abortion Clinic 'Will Be Regulated'
Health Minister Edwin Poots has said the new controversial Marie Stopes abortion clinic will be regulated. The Minister was talking on BBC Northern Ireland’s Sunday Politics Show. He said he was taking legal advice as to how the first private abortion clinic in Northern Ireland should be regulated.
Poots: Abortion Clinic 'Will Be Regulated'
Health Minister Edwin Poots has said the new controversial Marie Stopes abortion clinic will be regulated. The Minister was talking on BBC Northern Ireland’s Sunday Politics Show. He said he was taking legal advice as to how the first private abortion clinic in Northern Ireland should be regulated.
22 July 2021
Abortion Services Must Be Made Available ASAP
Abortion services must be made available in Northern Ireland no later than 31 March, 2022.
Abortion Services Must Be Made Available ASAP
Abortion services must be made available in Northern Ireland no later than 31 March, 2022.
07 July 2003
Courts turn down request for clarity on abortion
A request by the Family Planning Association (FPA) for clarification on abortion law in Northern Ireland has been turned down by the courts.
Courts turn down request for clarity on abortion
A request by the Family Planning Association (FPA) for clarification on abortion law in Northern Ireland has been turned down by the courts.
-
Northern Ireland WeatherToday:A showery start with outbreaks most frequent north of Lough Neagh and through the morning, before dwindling during the afternoon as the northwest breezes ease and brighter spells of weak sunshine prosper. Maximum temperature 8 °C.Tonight:A dry night, save for a few light showers around the coasts, with prolonged clear spells and light winds bringing a frosty dawn for many in central and southern parts. Minimum temperature -3 °C.
