Green MSP launches consultation on buffer zones bill
A Scottish Green Party MSP today launched a consultation on her legislative proposal to designate protest free ‘buffer zones’ outside abortion clinics across the country.
Gillian Mackay MSP said that intimidation and harassment outside these healthcare facilities must end, and that legislation was the only way to ensure that everyone accessing such facilities could do so without the threat of encountering protests.
Commenting, Ms Mackay said:
“For too long people wishing to access healthcare where abortions are provided have risked facing intimidation from protestors gathered outside these facilities.
“It is time we ensured that everyone who needs to access abortion services can do so free from intimidation and harassment.
“That’s why I intend to bring forward legislation that would create protest free buffer zones outside these hospitals and clinics.
“Today, I am launching a consultation to hear from the public, particularly from those who have experience of encountering such protests. By sharing their views, those with lived experience can help me develop the most appropriate and robust legislation possible.”