People accompanying women for abortion could be breaking proposed safe access zones law

Officials suggest Safe Access to Termination of Pregnancy Services Bill could impact friends and partners of women seeking abortions

Department of Health officials offered their advice on the new 'safe zones' legislation to the Minister for Health, Stephen Donnelly. Picture: Gareth Chaney/Collins

Partners, relative, or friends accompanying a pregnant woman to have an abortion could be breaking the law if they offer advice or support inside a proposed safe access zone, a review has found.

Departmental advice sent to the Oireachtas health committee in relation to the Safe Access to Termination of Pregnancy Services Bill 2021, notes it could pose unforeseen difficulties for pregnant women and gardaí.