Make historical change, Repeal the 8th - Norton

Ógra Shinn Féin Women's Officer, Ellen Norton, has called on the people of Ireland to stand up and make historical change by repealing the 8th amendment from the constitution. 

A referendum will be held on Friday 25th May in the 26 counties. 

The Louth activist said:

“Friday's referendum is about the whole of Irish society finally joining together and saying that women can access the healthcare they need in Ireland when they need it.

“I don’t believe that those who voted to put the 8thamendment into the Constitution in 1983 ever intended for women to die, but women have died and have suffered serious health consequences.  

“As we debate the question being put to us in this referendum, we must remember those who have been most badly affected by the 8th Amendment; victims of sexual violence such as the 14 year old rape victim X case, a suicidal child who in 1992 was forced to go to the courts in order to travel for an abortion. 

“We may not know their names or anything about them but what we do know is this; girls or women who become pregnant as a result of rape are still being forced to travel if they need a termination. This is an unacceptable situation. There is no compassion in allowing such a situation to continue.

“We want an Ireland that doesn’t punish tragedy. An Ireland that doesn’t turn its back on women and girls. An Ireland where they can make decisions about their own healthcare with the support of their doctors. 

“It is time for care and compassion to prevail. Vote Yes on May 25th.”