AQW 10680/22-27

Ms Claire Sugden
Independent
East Londonderry

Tabled Date: 23/04/2024
Answered On Date: 08/05/2024
Priority Written: No

Question:
To ask the Minister of Health for his assessment of how Safe Access Zones around hospitals can be better enforced in order to avoid suffering of families who have lost babies and potential conflict with protestors.

Answer:

Safe Access Zones were introduced at all health service locations providing abortion services across Northern Ireland from 29 September 2023, and continue to operate effectively in line with Assembly legislation to protect women and girls accessing abortion treatment services, information, advice and counselling, and to protect staff working at these locations.

Enforcement of a Safe Access Zone is a matter for the Police Service of Northern Ireland.