Abortion reform draft Bill published in the Isle of Man
A draft Bill outlining proposed changes to abortion law is now available for public consultation on the Isle of Man.
The Abortion Reform Bill is designed to allow early access to counselling and abortion services for Manx women.
Dr Alex Allinson MHK was granted leave in January by the House of Keys to redraft the proposed legislation, after members voted 21 to 3 in favour to permit him to introduce the Bill.
The proposed reforms treat the three stages of pregnancy (trimesters) differently:
Up to 14 weeks:
Abortion on request.
From 15 weeks to 24 weeks abortion would be available for a number of social reasons:
if the woman’s life or health is in danger
if the developing foetus has a fatal abnormality
if the developing foetus has a serious developmental defect.
After 24 weeks termination would only be carried out in exceptional circumstances:
where the woman’s life or health is at serious risk
where the foetus has a fatal abnormality
where the foetus would have a serious handicap if it survived birth
The consultation document provides access to a range of sources of evidence regarding the current law and situation for Isle of Man women seeking abortion in the UK.
It also asks whether the island should establish 'safety zones' around hospitals or clinics to prevent anti-abortionists from causing distress to patients and staff.
If successful, the draft Bill will replace the current Termination of Pregnancy Act 1995.
Dr Alex Allinson MHK said: “I hope as many people as possible take part in this important consultation.
Read more here: