A new legal framework for abortion services in Northern Ireland [Consultation[]

The UK Government has today published a consultation paper, A legal framework for abortion services in Northern Ireland. This consultation is in relation to the implementation of the legal duty under section 9 of the Northern Ireland (Executive Formation etc) Act 2019 - and will inform a new framework for access to abortion services in Northern Ireland that is consistent with the recommendations of the 2018 United Nations Committee on the Elimination of Discrimination Against Women Report, Inquiry concerning the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland under article 8 of the Optional Protocol to the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women. The consultation will run for six weeks and the UK Government would welcome comments from anyone in Northern Ireland with an interest or view, particularly those directly impacted by the current law and any proposed changes and health professionals, to inform the shape of legislation to be introduced by 31 March 2020.