The Pro Life Campaign today called on Amnesty International to clarify its comments regarding abortion and disabled people following the latest comments of the Executive Director of Amnesty Ireland, Colm O’Gorman.
Speaking on the matter, Pro Life Campaign Deputy Chairperson Cora Sherlock said:
“Colm O’Gorman is on record this week as saying that legislation must be introduced to allow for abortion in cases of “severe and fatal foetal impairment”. This will come as a huge shock to many people throughout the country who are caring for beloved family members living with what can be termed as “severe disability”.
“Many conditions such as Down Syndrome and cystic-fibrosis can be diagnosed in the womb and could fall under the heading of “severe foetal impairment” referred to by Mr. O’Gorman. It is deeply worrying that Amnesty now seems to be slipping further towards supporting abortion for disability in the womb. This is the complete opposite of what most people in Ireland understand by genuine “human rights” protection. Disabled people deserve the full protection of the law. As a so-called human rights defender, Amnesty should support their right to life unconditionally.
“Is Colm O’Gorman now saying that abortion should be offered when one of these conditions is diagnosed prenatally? He needs to clarify his position without delay,” she concluded.
ENDS