The Religious Sisters of Charity have departed from healthcare after more than two centuries, in a move that will pave the way for abortions to be carried out in the New National Maternity Hospital (NMH) after it is built on a site at St Vincent’s Hospital, despite claims to the contrary.

“We will have no role in the future of the new independent charity, the St Vincent’s Healthcare Group, St Vincent’s Holding CLG or the new National Maternity Hospital,” said Sr Patricia Lenihan, superior general of Religious Sisters of Charity. “Our sisters will continue to work with local communities in Ireland and abroad.”

In a deal under discussion with the Government, St Vincent’s Healthcare Group (SVHG) will lease the NMH site to the State for 299 years. In addition, the hospital’s Health Service Executive licence will incorporate legal measures requiring it to provide all procedures allowed under law in Ireland.

In a statement on Thursday, SVHG Chairman, James Menton, said the sisters’ role in the development of modern healthcare for Irish people from all walks of life, “cannot be underestimated and we thank them sincerely for their commitment, dedication and service.”