Clare Bailey has welcomed today’s ruling from the Supreme Court.
Clare said “I am relieved to have the ruling today. The judges agreed unanimously on all grounds that this Bill was within the legal competence of the NI Assembly. It will now proceed for Royal Assent. I want to pay tribute to the campaigners and activists that have fought tirelessly to ensure that women can access legal healthcare without fear of harassment and intimidation. I want to pay tribute to the team around me and everyone who helped along the way. I promised that I would deliver this legislation and despite all the opposition and obstacles, I did.”
Clare continued “This ruling paves the way for similar legislation across these islands. This will give strength to those who are exploring similar legislation in the South and particularly to the Scottish Greens bringing their Safe Access Zones Bill through the Scottish Parliament. Northern Ireland can now lead the way on safe, legal access to abortion healthcare. Greens are paving the way across these Islands. The deliberate campaign of harassment and intimidation against those seeking legal healthcare will end. This is the best Christmas present ever.”