There is increasing concern that the review initiated by the government of the operation of the country’s abortion law will not take a balanced approached to the matter, according to the leader of Aontú.

Meath West TD Peadar Tóibín noted the thousands of lives lost to abortion since its legalisation, the great majority of which are for socio-economic reasons, and yet, “all the information that has leaked out of the abortion review seems to be going in one direction, how to deregulate abortion law in Ireland further”.

“At a time when mothers are homeless and pregnant much more needs to be done to see what supports can be put in place to make mothers feel that they actually have a choice”.

Media reports say the Review claims the system could collapse, unless the Government acts, as 90% of doctors refuse to carry out abortions.

Deputy Toibin said most doctors became doctors to save lives, not to end lives.

“The review seems to question whether doctors who object to participate in abortions on humanitarian grounds can be censured. The government must not try to deliver abortions by forcing and pressurising medics to break their commitment to be compassionate and humane”.

He also questioned the focus on getting rid of the 3-day waiting time before an abortion as the procedure is an irreversible decision and the baby cannot be brought back to life after an abortion.

“The enormity of this decision should allow for some time to think things through, to look at the life and death consequences and to potentially research positive life affirming options”.