AQW 10680/22-27 Written question to the Minister of Health

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.

Asked by Claire Sugden MLA on 23 April 2024

  • Answered
  • Written
Tabled
23 April 2024
Answer due by
9 May 2024
Answered
8 May 202415 days after tabling
Department
Department of Health
Priority question
No

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.

Official sources