Scottish Green MSP begins Irish buffer zone visit
Scottish Green MSP Gillian Mackay has visited the Republic of Ireland for talks on how the Irish Government is introducing buffer zones to stop protests outside abortion service providers.
Over the next four days, Gillian will meet with representatives from across the Dáil Éireann, including the Minister of State, Ossian Smyth, as well as campaign groups.
Gillian is introducing similar legislation in Scotland so will also share her experiences. Her recent consultation on the issue received over 12,000 responses.
Speaking ahead of her visit, Gillian said:
“The images we have seen, and the stories I have been told by people who have been intimidated, obstructed and abused outside medical facilities, are shocking.
“I am proud to be introducing a Bill to stop the protests, and want to ensure it is the best and most robust legislation it can be.
“That is why I am speaking to representatives from the Irish Government as well as campaign groups who have been on the frontline of tackling the same problem. I want to learn from their experiences and share some of mine.
“Abortion rights are human rights. In years to come, people will look back at these appalling protests and wonder why they were allowed to go on for so long.
“By working together and learning from one another, whether in Scotland or Ireland, we can end the harassment for good.”
