There are calls for the Health Minister to clamp down on pro-life demonstrations near hospitals.
It follows a motion passed by Limerick City and County Council calling for legislation to be introduced to create safe access zones for patients.
Ireland hasn’t seen anti-abortion rallies like these since the referendum to repeal the 8th amendment was passed over three years ago.
But Limerick Councillor Conor Sheehan says smaller, persistent demonstrations are taking place outside Limerick’s maternity hospital.
In 2019, then Minister for Health Simon Harris said introducing safe access zones was a “top priority”, however no legislation on the matter has been put forward.
Alana Ryan from the National Women’s Council says it deters medics from offering the service.
An independent expert will lead a review into the current abortion legislation, which the Health Minister says is it a “very early stage”.
