End intimidation and protests outside abortion services for good
It is time to end intimidation and harassment outside abortion service providers for good, say the Scottish Greens.
This follows a landmark stakeholders summit on the issue of reproductive rights that was hosted today by the First Minister.
Scottish Green MSP Gillian Mackay, who spoke at the summit, is introducing a Members Bill to establish 150 metre buffer zones to ban protests outside abortion service providers.
Speaking after the summit Gillian said:
“Today’s summit has underlined the determination there is to end these protests.
“Standing still is not enough when it comes to reproductive rights, particularly when they are being undermined and attacked around the world. Our progress can be fragile, and that is why we must do everything we can to protect and advance it.
“Some of the stories that people have shared with me have been really harrowing. It is their experiences that are at the heart of the Bill I am introducing. I want to ensure that nobody else has to endure the things that they have.
“Nobody should be obstructed or face graphic images and placards when accessing healthcare, yet that is what is happening outside abortion services providers across our country.
“I am delighted that the Scottish Government is showing such strong support for my Bill.
“I regret that Buffer zones are even necessary, but they are. That is why I am determined that we will introduce the most robust and watertight legislation that we can, and that we do it as soon as possible.”