Abortion Debate – “THW Legalise Abortion in Ireland”

“Right to Life vs. Right to Choose”

Date: Thursday 19th November

Time: 7.00pm

Location: Kirwan Theatre

The issue of abortion is never too far from political and ethical discourse in modern society and is an issue that elicits a strong response in almost every person.

There are many individuals and groups who feel the current situation in Ireland is outdated as we continue to modernise our society and separate our beliefs from our conservative Catholic past. In a time when babies are rarely accident but carefully calculated events, is it right to deny women this other option in the most exceptional of circumstances. Pro-choice groups say that a woman has a right to choose what she does with her own body, including anything that can be considered a part of it, like a human foetus.

This view is not universal, especially in Ireland and many people feel there are some moral issues that cannot be compromised on and must be above current Liberal fashions. What about that potential that can never be realised? Can that unborn child ever be forgotten and even then, can a mother come to terms with the effects of her decision? Views long espoused by the Catholic Church in this country, they are still relevant to a large number of people in society who see them as being fundamental and inalienable rights.

On this, the toughest of all debates, Lit & Deb deals with the very serious issue of the unborn child, the mother’s rights, and whether the state can or should step in. Speaking in favour of the motion will be Gabrielle Malone, Programme Director for the Mary Stopes Reproductive Choices Clinic in Dublin. On the other side will be Professor William Binchy, legal consultant to the Pro Life Campaign in Ireland.