Safe Access to Termination of Pregnancy Services Bill 2021

Public bill · Private Member · Introduced

The bill would create protected “safe access zones” around clinics and other premises where lawful termination of pregnancy services are provided. Inside those zones, people would be banned from protesting, trying to persuade patients or staff, filming or photographing them without consent, or otherwise acting in a way that blocks, pressures or harasses anyone entering or leaving. It would also make it an offence to repeatedly follow, approach or contact service providers to dissuade them from taking part in this care, and it would give Gardaí power to order someone to leave if they appear to be about to break the rules. It matters because it is aimed at making access to these services safer and more private for patients and staff, while setting out fines, possible prison terms, and the right to seek damages in civil court.

Formal long title

Bill entitled an Act to protect the free and unencumbered access to facilities providing legal termination of pregnancy services; protect individuals providing or facilitating legal termination of pregnancy services from harassment; and to provide for matters connected therewith.

Last updated 14 November 2024