"Buffer Zones" For Protests Around Abortion Providers Before Cabinet

Tuesday, 27 June 2023 10:42

By Caoimhe Harney

The legislation will prohibit anyone trying to impede access within 100 metres of the entrance of a healthcare building

Cabinet will approve legislation this morning to establish safe access zones around premises which provide abortion services.

Impeding access to or trying to influence someone's decision when it comes to termination of pregnancy will be an offence within a 100 metre buffer zone around such premises.

People will be allowed to protest outside that zone and the penalties will only kick in after Gardaí have given an initial warning.

If people continue to protest or breach the law after that warning they could be brought to the District Court where escalating penalties will apply for repeat offences, up to a maximum fine of 2,500 euro or six months in prison.

The bill is expected to start its passage through the Oireachtas before the summer recess.

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