More than 6,600 women and girls received abortions in Ireland in 2019, a report has shown.
A total of 6,666 abortions were carried out in the first year under the new legislation, with most carried out very early in the pregnancy.
The vast majority of abortions (6,542) were carried out on early pregnancies of less than 12 weeks, 21 terminations were carried out under the legislation’s risk to life or health category, while three took place because there was a risk to life and health in an emergency.
Some 100 abortions were performed because there was a condition likely to lead to the death of the fetus.
Dublin accounted for 2,493 terminations, according to the woman’s home address, and Cork for 606.
Amnesty were supportive of the findings and encouraged the new government to make sure the success continues.
Colm O’Gorman, Executive Director of Amnesty International Ireland, said: “To go from a country that exiled women seeking abortions two years ago, to one that is caring for them at home is such an important step forward.
“There are some wide variations in the numbers across counties, though.
“The new government must ensure abortion services are available and accessible to all pregnant people in the state.
“Healthcare providers have made this new abortion service happen, and we want to acknowledge the incredible work they have done to protect the rights of pregnant people in this country.
“The people of Ireland campaigned and change our Constitution. It is the people working within the health system who made it a reality. ”
“But some serious gaps remain in the legislation that are likely still forcing pregnant people to travel.
“One gap we previously highlighted is the high threshold of ‘serious harm’ to a pregnant person’s health under what should be a general health ground. Another is the lack of access in cases of severe non-fatal foetal impairment diagnoses.
“Some gaps in the law can’t wait until the three-year review process to close.
“One is the long-promised legislation to create safe zones around healthcare facilities.
“Peaceful protesting is a human right; intimidating or harassing people seeking healthcare is not.”
And Niall Behan, Chief Executive of the Irish Family Planning Association, has called on reforms to education in order to normalise reproductive rights.
He said: “Ireland is moving in the right direction in relation to the provision of sexual and reproductive health services and the fulfilment of reproductive rights.
“But there is more to do. Reforms to sexuality education and contraception access are urgently needed.”
“And we know from UK statistics, published earlier this month, that not all women and girls who need abortion care are able to access it in Ireland.”
