Calls to name date for vote on abortion

The offer of compensation to a woman who successfully complained to the United Nations about Ireland’s abortion laws, is a recognition by the State that she was subjected to “cruel, inhuman and degrading” treatment because she was forced to travel to seek an abortion, the National Women’s Council of Ireland (NWCI) has said.

However, NWCI also said the Government needs to set a date for a referendum on the Eight Amendment, instead of just continuing to compensate women.

Health Minister Simon Harris said the Government was offering a payment of €30,000 and appropriate psychological services to Amanda Mellet.