The Humanity and Equality in Abortion Reform (HEAR) campaign has issued a press statement announcing the launch of a new petition, which calls for abortion law reform on the Isle of Man.
The petition, which is addressed to the Isle of Man's new Health and Social Care Minister, Kate Beecroft MHK, currently has over 5,000 signatures and urges greater protections for the unborn child.
It comes after the Isle of Man elected 24 new Members of the House of Keys (MHK) on 23 September.
Manx abortion law
The Isle of Man's 'Termination of Pregnancy Act 1995' is the law governing abortions in the self-governing British Crown dependency.
It allows for abortion to take place on a number of grounds, such as a pregnancy arising from a criminal offence such as rape and on certain mental health grounds.
However, unlike British law it uniquely mandates a level of care for babies born alive. Furthermore, evidence is required where the reason for abortion is a crime (i.e. rape), and the independent doctor certifying abortions on the grounds of mental health must be a psychiatric consultant.
HEAR is campaigning for better care and support for pregnant women and their babies, an end to eugenic abortion, improved regulations, and stronger conscience protections.
Humanity and Equality
The petition calls on Mrs. Beecroft to “advocate and ensure that Manx abortion laws are reformed in a way that reflects the principles of humanity and equality that should always animate and inform our politics”.
The petition ends by asking Mrs. Beecroft to "[p]lease ensure that Tynwald remains a 'cutting edge' Parliament, by introducing just and humane abortion reform that increases right-to-life protections for unborn children, and compassionate support for their parents".
'Equal rights of the baby in the womb'
HEAR spokesperson Hannah Grove said:
"Now that we have a new Government, it is imperative that everyone who wants an Isle of Man that is humane, egalitarian, and progressive, calls upon Tynwald to introduce reforms that will make our laws and medical practice better protect and serve unborn children and pregnant mothers equally.
"By better recognising the humanity and equal rights of the baby in the womb, regardless of their disability or ability, and by providing full and proper support to parents in every pregnancy situation, our Island can continue to lead the way as a 21st century society in providing compassion and care for every member of the Manx, and wider human family."
Take action
Please support the HEAR campaign by signing the petition.
Related Links:
PRESS RELEASE: HEAR Launches Petition To New Health & Social Care Minister Asking For Humanity & Equality In Abortion Reform (HEAR)
Bring Humanity and Equality into Abortion Reform on the Isle of Man (Citizen GO)