So Ireland needs to change its abortion laws. They’re working on it. And they’re getting harassed by the anti-abortion crowd as a result.
The Taoiseach responded to concerns over the legislation, published overnight, after an Independent TD warned about a pro-life mob ambushing politicians in a widespread campaign of intimidation.
John Halligan, from Waterford, claimed he was confronted by a gang of seven campaigners on the promenade in Tramore in May and told to change his views on abortion, or they would be changed for him. One of the group called to his house late that day and stuffed leaflets through his letterbox.
Mr Halligan also recalled the experience of Fine Gael TD Regina Doherty who was threatened via email with having her throat cut to her naval. She was also told her house would be burned down.
Because pro-life.
Mr Halligan made his claims in the Dail as he called on Tanaiste Eamon Gilmore to condemn the Catholic Church for not criticising anti-abortion campaigners who attack politicians. The Tanaiste refused to condemn the church for lobbying over the abortion issue but went on to describe some statements from the bishops as exaggerated. Ireland’s Catholic bishops reiterated their opposition to the abortion reform this week and warned that it was a defining moment for the country.
Ireland’s Catholic bishops are happy to see women die of miscarriages because hospitals refuse to do abortions, are they? They think that’s a good outcome? They’re glad Savita Halappanavar is dead?
Yes, apparently. They have big plans for tomorrow.
The Catholic Church will chastise the Irish state from the pulpit this weekend when, at the request of the bishops, priests across the country will read out their latest response to the Irish government’s proposed legislation on abortion at Masses this weekend.
According to the Irish Independent, the bishops will also invite the priests and mass goers to pray the specially designated ‘Choose Life’ prayer in the hope that ‘the dignity and value of all human life will continue to be upheld in Ireland.’
No, not all human life. Not the human life of a woman having a miscarriage at 17 weeks. Her life doesn’t count.