The Dáil has begun debating proposed new abortion laws – over four months after the passing of the referendum to repeal the Eighth amendment.
It will allow for abortion without restriction for up to 12 weeks into pregnancy and in limited circumstances after that.
Health Minister Simon Harris got Cabinet approval for the legislation last week, and he introduced the Health (Regulation of Termination of Pregnancy) Bill 2018 into the Dáil this afternoon.
Minister Simon Harris has confirmed a 24/7 helpline staffed by medical practitioners will be set up as part of the new service.
Speaking in the Dáil today, Minister Harris told deputies: "It is time to end the lonely journeys. It's time to finish the shame and stigma that have cast shadows on so many lives. It is long past time to stop punishing tragedy.
"I look forward to an Ireland where any woman facing a crisis pregnancy can be assured that she will be treated with compassion, and will be able to access all the care she and her family need."
The minister has called on pro-life TDs to respect the outcome of the referendum and not attempt to delay the passage of the legislation.
He remains confident doctors will be able to carry out abortions from the start of next year, despite concern from practitioners about whether they'll be ready in time.
'Considerable problems'
Pro-choice campaigners have welcomed the introduction of the legislation, but have raised some concerns about the proposals.
The Abortion Rights Campaign has suggested there are 'considerable problems' with the draft legislation.
Spokesperson Linda Kavanagh argued: "Mandatory waiting periods defy all medical evidence and disproportionately harm the most vulnerable groups in society.
"The statutory enabling of medical practitioners to refuse care (or 'conscientiously object') opens the door for widespread refusal on grounds of convenience rather than conscience."
The National Women's Council of Ireland suggested that the proposed three-day waiting period "should be triggered at initial contact with a healthcare provider rather than at the time of the first appointment".
NWCI director Orla O'Connor observed: "The Oireachtas has a resounding mandate from the Irish public. People voted Yes on May 25th for change and we need a swift delivery of that emphatic call for access to abortion care here in Ireland."
Meanwhile, pro-life campaigners have pledged to continue to fight for the rights of unborn children.
Pro life campaigners say it’s a ‘sad and disappointing day’ as abortion legislation is discussed in the Dáil. Some are hopeful of another referendum to reverse the May result to repeal the 8th amendment #ProLife #repealedThe8th pic.twitter.com/ZWfCMiiLMd
— Gail Conway (@gailconwaymedia) October 4, 2018
The Pro Life Campaign claimed the legislation is the "most unjust and inhumane bill ever to come before the Dáil".
Boylan appointment
Last night the government announced Dr Peter Boylan will be working with the HSE to lay the groundwork for the new service.
He'll consult with other medical practitioners about what is needed to bring in abortion services in Ireland and will work on drafting clinical guidelines for doctors.
Dr Boylan was the Chair of the Institute of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists, and a vocal supporter of a Yes vote in the abortion referendum campaign.
Minister Harris said: "Dr Boylan is a leading figure in obstetrics and gynaecology and we are so pleased to have him assist in this work. "
Additional reporting by Gail Conway, Mick Staines and Stephen McNeice
