Abortion denies the human right to exist

IN an effort to diminish the status of a foetus, Evelyn Cleary (Irish Examiner letters, August 31) naively points out that “sperm and eggs are also potential human beings.”

Not so. That is the same as claiming that a packet of chrysanthemum seeds just purchased in the flower shop is a beautiful border of flowers. A little more has to be achieved before the packet of seeds reaches the ‘potential’ stage.

She also says there is “no scientific consensus as to when human life begins.” Actually the timing of that occurrence is completely beside the point. All that matters is that the termination of a foetus, irrespective of when, denies the right to exist of the human being into whom the foetus will develop.

She quite rightly points out that a woman should have control over her own body. The strict and moral exercising of that right will avoid the situation where the abortion option has to be considered.

But, I’m sure, Evelyn knows that.

Seán Fitzgerald

Shournagh Drive

Blarney

Co Cork