Abortion remains illegal in most circumstances in Ireland, but the large UK abortion business Marie Stopes maintains a referral office in Dublin, where the 40 Days for Life vigil is held.
Carolyn, the local leader, is also the director of Gianna Care crisis pregnancy centre. This campaign has seen three women who changed their minds and have received help there. Marie Stopes is open just 3 or 4 days a week. They do scans, but don’t show the pictures to the mothers.
A recent election here has remained inconclusive, but there is likely to be a referendum on keeping the pro-life part of the constitution. The pro-life movement here is concerned, following the abortion law change in 2013.
I was on the radio a couple of times and met Youth Defence, who have campaigned vigorously for decades. Everyone is extremely friendly and pleasant here and I was touched with the warmth of the welcome.
The cultural difference between Ireland and the UK, which in practice has abortion on demand, is astonishing. Ireland has largely held out against abortion, and I hope that may long continue.
