The Department of Health, Social Services and Public Safety (DHSSPS) have issued Guidelines on performing abortions in Northern Ireland. These Guidelines were approved by the Stormont Executive — made up of members from the four main political parties. The Guidelines effectively legalise abortion ‘through the back door’ by misinterpreting the law relating to abortion in Northern Ireland. The Department of Health claim their Guidelines will not change the law. But don’t be fooled: a change in the law is not necessary for there to be a change in the interpretation of the law regarding abortion in Northern Ireland. The Guidelines are legally and medically flawed — beyond the level that would allow for correction. They must be withdrawn and re-drafted in full, with input from pro-life medical and legal experts. New Guidelines must acknowledge and reaffirm the unborn child’s right to life and their protection in law.

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