PLC Submission Challenges NMBI’s Respect for Abortion in Draft Code
Earlier this week, the Pro Life Campaign (PLC) submitted a formal response to the Nursing and Midwifery Board of Ireland (NMBI), urging the board to recognise the “two-patient” model of care in pregnancy, which considers both the mother and the unborn baby. The PLC’s submission calls for the new Code of Professional Conduct and Ethics to explicitly include proper protections for the freedom of conscience of nurses and midwives, ensuring they are not compelled to assist with or facilitate abortions.
Concerns Over Draft Code’s Language
The submission challenges the recently circulated draft code, which requires nurses and midwives to demonstrate “respect” for the current life-ending abortion regime in Ireland. The PLC contends that this language could potentially lead to fitness-to-practise complaints against nurses or midwives who, on conscientious grounds, refuse to assist with abortions.
Furthermore, the submission criticises the draft code for displaying a “total disdain” for the right to life of unborn babies and a disregard for numerous peer-reviewed studies that highlight the adverse effects of abortion on women’s health. The PLC argues that a mature, pluralistic democracy must respect and protect the freedom of conscience of its citizens. Consequently, they call on the NMBI to amend the draft code to safeguard these crucial protections.
Additional Submission on National Strategy for Women and Girls
In addition to their submission to the NMBI, the PLC also responded to a consultation process initiated by the Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth regarding a new National Strategy for Women and Girls. Their response advocates for comprehensive reforms in how Ireland addresses unplanned pregnancies.
The PLC urges the adoption of new policies aimed at reducing socio-economic abortions and calls for an overhaul of the HSE-run My Options helpline. They emphasise the need for more resources for positive options for women facing unplanned pregnancies, alongside a suspension of telemedicine ‘at home’ abortions.
Click the following to read the PLC submission to The Nursing and Midwifery Board and the PLC submission to The National Strategy for Women and Girls.