Statement from the Department of Health, Social Services and Public Safety about guidance on the termination of pregnancy

Following the recent High Court decision, the Department of Health Social Services and Public Safety has withdrawn its 'Guidance on the Termination of Pregnancy'.

The High Court ruled that the part of guidance relating to advice to health professionals on matters of counselling and conscientious objection was misleading. However, the judge found in favour of the Department in respect of five of the seven grounds that he gave judgment on, including the main issue that the Department, in its guidance, had not misinterpreted or misrepresented the law.

In order to ensure that health professionals are not without guidance, the Department has issued interim guidance with the sections on counselling and conscientious objection temporarily removed. The Department is now revising those sections. When that work is finished, those sections will be issued for public consultation and NI Executive Committee consideration.

Notes to editors:

1. The interim guidance is available on the DHSSPS website

2. Press enquiries to the DHSSPS Press Office on 028 9052 0579. Out of office hours please contact the Duty Press Officer via pager number 07699 715 440 and your call will be returned.