Cathal Barry“I believe in the equal rights of mothers and babies” – Renua leader
Renua leader Lucinda Creighton has said her experience of childbirth has made her more committed to protecting the rights of mothers and unborn babies.
Ms Creighton, who almost lost her daughter during childbirth, said politicians were obliged to ensure that best practices were in place in hospitals around the country to protect mothers and babies during pregnancy.
“I think it is our obligation as parliamentarians, as policymakers, to ensure we provide the best care for mothers and babies and I believe in the equal rights of mothers and babies. It is a really important principle, as far I am concerned. I want to see quality care provided for parents, particularly for mums in this country, and that is my priority,” she said.
Ms Creighton, who left Fine Gael over the passing of the Protection of Life During Pregnancy Act, was replaced by Kate O’Connell on the party ticket in Dublin Bay South.
Pro-choice
Ms O’Connell, who is pro-choice, has said she is in favour of abortion during the first 10 weeks of pregnancy.
Meanwhile, a majority of Fine Gael TDs who responded to a survey carried out by The Sunday Times want a referendum to widen access to abortion in the lifetime of the next Dail.
Of the 48 TDs that responded, just eight were opposed to any further liberalisation of abortion laws.