An estimated 100,000 people are alive today because of Northern Ireland’s strong stance on abortion, according to a new report.
The figure, in a report by new pro-life campaign Both Lives Matter, is equal to five per cent of the total population of the Province.
It has been recognised as ‘plausible and cautious’ by veteran economist Dr Esmond Birnie, who has 30 years of experience evaluating public policy.
Both Lives Matter
Both Lives Matter states that: “Whatever your view on abortion, there are 100,000 reasons to pause and ask some big questions about where our culture is going.”
The group, which describes itself as a “collaborative movement of individuals and organisations”, is seeking to “re-frame the abortion debate in Northern Ireland”.
They argue that: “The debate around abortion is in danger of becoming polarised by those only concerned with the unborn child on the one hand and those solely concerned with the rights of the woman on the other.”
“The reality”, they add, “is that both lives matter. We want to create a life-affirming culture that values each woman and her unborn child where compassion, solidarity and support for both lives is the norm”.
Balanced law
In their report, released on Wednesday, the group highlights that 2017 marks 50 years since the passing of the 1967 Abortion Act, which made abortion freely available throughout England, Wales and Scotland.
The Act was never extended to Northern Ireland, where the group says the law strikes a balance “between the protection of both mother and unborn child”.
Both Lives Matter believes that Northern Ireland’s pro-life law must be defended, as it ensures the “preservation of the value of life across society”.
Pro-life support
Their objectives have won support from pro-life figures, including Bishop Ken Clarke, Baroness Nuala O’Loan, former Lord Mayor of Belfast Alban Maginness and Carla Lockhart MLA, Chair of the All Party Group on Human Life.