Britain's Supreme Court on Thursday said it could not rule on an appeal against Northern Ireland's strict abortion laws, but that it would have declared them incompatible with human rights laws otherwise.&nbsp;

By a majority decision, the justices said that the Northern Ireland Human Rights Commission (NIHRC), which brought the appeal, did not have the power to "institute abstract proceedings of this nature".

"It follows that the Supreme Court has no jurisdiction in these proceedings to give relief in respect of the challenge Northern Ireland abortion law," the ruling added.

However, the court also said that a majority of justices would have ruled the current Northern Ireland law incompatible with the European Convention on Human rights (ECHR), raising the pressure on London and Belfast to change their legislation.

"I would have concluded without real hesitation ... that the current state of Northern Ireland is incompatible with Article 8 of the Convention, insofar as it prohibits abortion in cases of fatal foetal abnormality, rape and incest, but not insofar as it prohibits abortion in cases of serious foetal abnormality," said judge Jonathan Mance.

This view was shared by four of the seven judges.

The court also said that a majority of justices would have ruled the current Northern Ireland law incompatible with the European Convention on Human rights

Britain's Supreme Court on Thursday said it could not rule on an appeal against Northern Ireland's strict abortion laws, but that it would have declared them incompatible with human rights laws otherwise. By a majority decision, the justices said that the Northern Ireland Human Rights Commission (NIHRC), which brought the appeal, did not have the power to "institute abstract proceedings of this nature". "It follows that the Supreme Court has no jurisdiction in these proceedings to give relief in respect of the challenge Northern Ireland abortion law," the ruling added. However, the court also said that a majority of justices would have ruled the current Northern Ireland law incompatible with the European Convention on Human rights (ECHR), raising the pressure on London and Belfast to change their legislation. "I would have concluded without real hesitation ... that the current state of Northern Ireland is incompatible with Article 8 of the Convention, insofar as it prohibits abortion in cases of fatal foetal abnormality, rape and incest, but not insofar as it prohibits abortion in cases of serious foetal abnormality," said judge Jonathan Mance. This view was shared by four of the seven judges.

UK top court says cannot rule on Northern Ireland abortion law

Hundreds of women's rights activist rallied in Belfast on Monday to put pressure on British Prime Minister Theresa May to reform Northern Ireland's highly restrictive abortion rules after neighbouring Ireland's vote to liberalise its laws.

Voters in Ireland on Friday backed the removal of a constitutional abortion ban by two-to-one.

That leaves British-ruled Northern Ireland as the only part of the British Isles with a restrictive abortion regime, and May on Sunday faced calls from within her cabinet and the opposition to scrap Northern Ireland's strict rules.

A spokeswoman for May said on Sunday changing the rules should only be undertaken by a government in Northern Ireland.

The province, divided between unionists who favour continued British rule and nationalists who want to unify with Ireland, has had no devolved regional government since January last year after a power-sharing agreement collapsed between the two communities' main parties.

Activists gathered outside Belfast City Hall carrying placards emblazoned with messages such as "I am not a vessel" and "Mind Your Own Uterus". They said it was May's responsibility to act.

"1, 2, 3, 4, we wont' be silenced any more," the crowd chanted. "5, 6, 7, 8, it's time for May to legislate."

Abortion is permitted in Northern Ireland only if a woman’s life is at risk or there is a risk to her mental or physical health that is long-term or permanent. It is not permitted in cases of rape, incest or fatal foetal abnormality.

Both Northern Ireland's mainly unionist Protestants and its mainly nationalist Catholics tend to be more socially conservative than elsewhere in Ireland or Britain.

The main unionist party, the DUP, opposes liberalising abortion laws, while the main nationalist party, Sinn Fein, backs some changes. DUP lawmakers in London provide votes needed to support May's minority government.

It is estimated that around three women travel from Northern Ireland to England for an abortion every day, while others risk prosecution by self-medicating with abortion pills.

"It is awfully unfair that people here should not be able to get an abortion," said schoolgirl George Poots, at the rally with her mother and brother. "At present they have to worry about travelling to England and I also think of the women who cannot travel."

Anti-abortion group Precious Life said Ireland's vote would spur it to "up the battle to protect Northern Ireland's unborn children". "Northern Ireland is now the beacon of hope to the pro-life movement around the world," leader Bernie Smyth said.

 
&nbsp

Voters in Ireland on Friday backed the removal of a constitutional abortion ban by two-to-one

Hundreds of women's rights activist rallied in Belfast on Monday to put pressure on British Prime Minister Theresa May to reform Northern Ireland's highly restrictive abortion rules after neighbouring Ireland's vote to liberalise its laws. Voters in Ireland on Friday backed the removal of a constitutional abortion ban by two-to-one. That leaves British-ruled Northern Ireland as the only part of the British Isles with a restrictive abortion regime, and May on Sunday faced calls from within her cabinet and the opposition to scrap Northern Ireland's strict rules. A spokeswoman for May said on Sunday changing the rules should only be undertaken by a government in Northern Ireland. The province, divided between unionists who favour continued British rule and nationalists who want to unify with Ireland, has had no devolved regional government since January last year after a power-sharing agreement collapsed between the two communities' main parties. Activists gathered outside Belfast City Hall carrying placards emblazoned with messages such as "I am not a vessel" and "Mind Your Own Uterus". They said it was May's responsibility to act. "1, 2, 3, 4, we wont' be silenced any more," the crowd chanted. "5, 6, 7, 8, it's time for May to legislate." Abortion is permitted in Northern Ireland only if a woman’s life is at risk or there is a risk to her mental or physical health that is long-term or permanent. It is not permitted in cases of rape, incest or fatal foetal abnormality. Both Northern Ireland's mainly unionist Protestants and its mainly nationalist Catholics tend to be more socially conservative than elsewhere in Ireland or Britain. The main unionist party, the DUP, opposes liberalising abortion laws, while the main nationalist party, Sinn Fein, backs some changes. DUP lawmakers in London provide votes needed to support May's minority government. It is estimated that around three women travel from Northern Ireland to England for an abortion every day, while others risk prosecution by self-medicating with abortion pills. "It is awfully unfair that people here should not be able to get an abortion," said schoolgirl George Poots, at the rally with her mother and brother. "At present they have to worry about travelling to England and I also think of the women who cannot travel." Anti-abortion group Precious Life said Ireland's vote would spur it to "up the battle to protect Northern Ireland's unborn children". "Northern Ireland is now the beacon of hope to the pro-life movement around the world," leader Bernie Smyth said.

Northern Ireland rally calls on Britain's May to ease abortion rules

Ireland on Saturday voted to erase the stigma and burden of shame from hundreds of thousands of women who secretly had abortions, Prime Minister Leo Varadkar said.

Speaking after a landslide referendum in favour of repealing the republic's ban on abortions, Varadkar said Ireland had emerged from the shadows and come of age.

"Today is a historic day for Ireland. A quiet revolution has taken place," he said in a speech at Dublin Castle, where the referendum result was declared, showing 66 per cent had voted to repeal the constitutional ban on abortions.

"We as a people have spoken. And we say that we trust women and we respect women and their decisions.

"No more doctors telling their patients there is nothing that can be done for them in their own country. No more lonely journeys across the Irish Sea.

"No more stigma. The veil of secrecy is lifted. No more isolation. The burden of shame is gone."

Varadkar, 39, was given a rock star welcome by cheering crowds packed into the castle forecourt to hear the final result of the referendum.

He said Ireland would now provide compassion and medical care for women in crisis pregnancies instead of turning a blind eye.

He told No voters feeling cut adrift that Ireland was the same country they knew, "just a little more tolerant, open and respectful".

Wrenching pain' of mistreatment

Ireland's constitution was amended in 1983 to ban abortions. Saturday's referendum result will likely see the amendment repealed before the year is out.

"For 35 years we have hidden the reality of crisis pregnancies behind our laws. We have hidden our conscience behind the constitution," said Varadkar.

"This majority decision changes all that."

He said Saturday would be remembered as the day that historically deeply socially conservative Ireland "stepped out from under the last of our shadows and into the light.

"The day we came of age as a country. The day we took our place among the nations of the world."

He ended his speech saying: "The wrenching pain of decades of mistreatment of Irish women cannot be unlived. However, today we have ensured that it does not have to be lived again."

Varadkar, Ireland's first gay prime minister, came to power last year in what was seen as another major milestone for diversity in Ireland. He took over as leader of the centre-right Fine Gael party, leading a minority government.

Born to an Indian father and an Irish mother, Varadkar was a hospital doctor before becoming a family doctor in 2010.

He changed his position on abortion after hearing of two particular cases during his time as health minister from 2014 to 2016, which convinced him terminations should not be banned in the Irish constitution.

As he left Dublin Castle, he stopped for selfies and chatted with the handful of Yes-supporters still in the forecourt.

Speaking after a landslide referendum in favour of repealing the republic's ban on abortions, Varadkar said Ireland had emerged from the shadows and come of age

Ireland on Saturday voted to erase the stigma and burden of shame from hundreds of thousands of women who secretly had abortions, Prime Minister Leo Varadkar said. Speaking after a landslide referendum in favour of repealing the republic's ban on abortions, Varadkar said Ireland had emerged from the shadows and come of age. "Today is a historic day for Ireland. A quiet revolution has taken place," he said in a speech at Dublin Castle, where the referendum result was declared, showing 66 per cent had voted to repeal the constitutional ban on abortions. "We as a people have spoken. And we say that we trust women and we respect women and their decisions. "No more doctors telling their patients there is nothing that can be done for them in their own country. No more lonely journeys across the Irish Sea. "No more stigma. The veil of secrecy is lifted. No more isolation. The burden of shame is gone." Varadkar, 39, was given a rock star welcome by cheering crowds packed into the castle forecourt to hear the final result of the referendum. He said Ireland would now provide compassion and medical care for women in crisis pregnancies instead of turning a blind eye. He told No voters feeling cut adrift that Ireland was the same country they knew, "just a little more tolerant, open and respectful". Wrenching pain' of mistreatment Ireland's constitution was amended in 1983 to ban abortions. Saturday's referendum result will likely see the amendment repealed before the year is out. "For 35 years we have hidden the reality of crisis pregnancies behind our laws. We have hidden our conscience behind the constitution," said Varadkar. "This majority decision changes all that." He said Saturday would be remembered as the day that historically deeply socially conservative Ireland "stepped out from under the last of our shadows and into the light. "The day we came of age as a country. The day we took our place among the nations of the world." He ended his speech saying: "The wrenching pain of decades of mistreatment of Irish women cannot be unlived. However, today we have ensured that it does not have to be lived again." Varadkar, Ireland's first gay prime minister, came to power last year in what was seen as another major milestone for diversity in Ireland. He took over as leader of the centre-right Fine Gael party, leading a minority government. Born to an Indian father and an Irish mother, Varadkar was a hospital doctor before becoming a family doctor in 2010. He changed his position on abortion after hearing of two particular cases during his time as health minister from 2014 to 2016, which convinced him terminations should not be banned in the Irish constitution. As he left Dublin Castle, he stopped for selfies and chatted with the handful of Yes-supporters still in the forecourt.

Irish PM hails abortion referendum result; says, 'abortion stigma is gone'

Thousands of people in Ireland are celebrating after the country voted overwhelmingly to change the constitution so that abortion can be legalised.

According to exit polls, 69 per cent of voters voted to repeal the 35-year-old 8th amendment to Ireland's constitution, which had put in place some of the most restrictive abortion laws in the world.&nbsp;

This could be a stunning victory for the Yes side after a long and often divisive campaign.

It is an historic moment for a country long viewed as deeply religious and traditional.

And it is a moment brought about by the untimely and tragic death of a vivacious young Indian woman from Karnataka after she was denied an abortion six years ago caused widespread outrage across Ireland and revulsion at what many saw as the country's archaic abortion laws.

In 2012, 31-year-old Savita Halappanavar was living the dream. She was a successful dentist who lived with her husband Praveen in Galway, on the west coast of the Republic of Ireland - one of the most breathtakingly beautiful parts of the world. In October 2012, the four-month pregnant Kavita was admitted to the University Hospital in Galway with back pain.

She was released and readmitted the same day when doctors determined that she was miscarrying.

<img alt="2018-05-25T225736Z_1_LYNXNPEE4O1UK_RTROPTP_4_IRELAND-ABORTION.JPG" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" height="351" src="http://images.wionews.com/iniline-images/news/2018-05-25T225736Z_1_LYNXNPEE4O1UK_RTROPTP_4_IRELAND-ABORTION.JPG" width="527" />

Savita asked for an abortion, realising that her life was now in danger. The doctors, who Savita's husband says were fearful of the consequences of granting his wife's wishes, repeatedly refused the termination.

At one point, her husband claims, doctors told him: "You can't have an abortion, this is a Catholic country", as his wife begged for a termination.

A little over a week later, Savita was dead from severe sepsis. She had suffered a miscarriage four days after she had been admitted to hospital.

Her death caused widespread revulsion. Thousands of people took to the streets across the country and even prompted representatives of the Catholic church - which has long shaped public policy and attitudes in Ireland - to publicly state that the church did not believe the right of an unborn child was more important than a woman's right to life.

A subsequent government investigation revealed that the ambiguity which surrounds the 8th amendment to the constitution - which only allows for abortions in cases where the life of the mother is in extreme danger - was a "materially contributory factor" in Savita`s death.

Savita's beaming face has appeared widely on posters and banners for the "yes" campaign which called for the repealing of the 8th amendment.

Her father Andanappa Yalagi released a video calling on voters to "remember Savita" when they voted. And Ireland has today voted overwhelmingly for a radical and historical change, sparked by the martyrdom of a young Indian girl whose life was cruelly snatched away.

<img alt="2018-05-25T230200Z_2_LYNXNPEE4O1JT_RTROPTP_4_IRELAND-ABORTION.JPG" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" height="353" src="http://images.wionews.com/iniline-images/news/2018-05-25T230200Z_2_LYNXNPEE4O1JT_RTROPTP_4_IRELAND-ABORTION.JPG" width="530" />

According to exit polls, 69 per cent of voters voted to repeal the 35-year-old 8th amendment to Ireland's constitution

Thousands of people in Ireland are celebrating after the country voted overwhelmingly to change the constitution so that abortion can be legalised. According to exit polls, 69 per cent of voters voted to repeal the 35-year-old 8th amendment to Ireland's constitution, which had put in place some of the most restrictive abortion laws in the world. This could be a stunning victory for the Yes side after a long and often divisive campaign. It is an historic moment for a country long viewed as deeply religious and traditional. And it is a moment brought about by the untimely and tragic death of a vivacious young Indian woman from Karnataka after she was denied an abortion six years ago caused widespread outrage across Ireland and revulsion at what many saw as the country's archaic abortion laws. In 2012, 31-year-old Savita Halappanavar was living the dream. She was a successful dentist who lived with her husband Praveen in Galway, on the west coast of the Republic of Ireland - one of the most breathtakingly beautiful parts of the world. In October 2012, the four-month pregnant Kavita was admitted to the University Hospital in Galway with back pain. She was released and readmitted the same day when doctors determined that she was miscarrying. Savita asked for an abortion, realising that her life was now in danger. The doctors, who Savita's husband says were fearful of the consequences of granting his wife's wishes, repeatedly refused the termination. At one point, her husband claims, doctors told him: "You can't have an abortion, this is a Catholic country", as his wife begged for a termination. A little over a week later, Savita was dead from severe sepsis. She had suffered a miscarriage four days after she had been admitted to hospital. Her death caused widespread revulsion. Thousands of people took to the streets across the country and even prompted representatives of the Catholic church - which has long shaped public policy and attitudes in Ireland - to publicly state that the church did not believe the right of an unborn child was more important than a woman's right to life. A subsequent government investigation revealed that the ambiguity which surrounds the 8th amendment to the constitution - which only allows for abortions in cases where the life of the mother is in extreme danger - was a "materially contributory factor" in Savita`s death. Savita's beaming face has appeared widely on posters and banners for the "yes" campaign which called for the repealing of the 8th amendment. Her father Andanappa Yalagi released a video calling on voters to "remember Savita" when they voted. And Ireland has today voted overwhelmingly for a radical and historical change, sparked by the martyrdom of a young Indian girl whose life was cruelly snatched away.

How tragic death of a young Indian woman sparked history-making vote in Ireland

Ireland's current abortion laws ban all terminations except in cases where the mother's life is at risk.

Draft legislation already prepared in case of a pro-choice vote in&nbsp;Friday's&nbsp;historic referendum would legalise abortions in the first 12 weeks of pregnancy and up to 24 weeks for health reasons.

Here is a rundown of the main legislative points.

What the law says

The eighth amendment to the Irish constitution, introduced by referendum in 1983, "acknowledges the right to life of the unborn". It forbids abortions, even in cases of rape, incest or where the foetus is malformed. The penalty is 14 years' imprisonment and a fine.

In 2012 the death of Savita Halappanavar, a 31-year-old who died of sepsis after a miscarriage when she was denied a medical abortion, outraged public opinion and led to a change in the law.

The following year an exception was introduced to the amendment, authorising abortion in cases where there was a mortal risk to the mother, including the risk of suicide. Under this provision, 26 abortions were performed in Ireland in 2014, 26 in 2015 and 25 in 2016.

Abortions abroad

The 13th amendment of the Irish constitution guarantees an individual "freedom to travel" to other states.

More than 168,000 women used this freedom to visit hospitals in England and Wales for abortions between 1980 and 2016, according to British Department of Health statistics compiled by the Irish Family Planning Association. By these figures, around 13 women who give Irish home addresses have abortions in England and Wales every day.

In 2011 Irish citizen Amanda Mellet was forced to travel to the city of Liverpool in the north of England to have an abortion when it was discovered the foetus of her child was mortally deformed.

Doctors reportedly told her the infant would be born dead or die shortly thereafter.&nbsp;

Considering herself to be a victim of unfair Irish legislation, she took her case to the United Nations Human Rights Committee which agreed she was subjected to "cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment".

Dublin paid her 30,000 euros ($35,000) in compensation.

Information on abortion

Spreading information on how to acquire an abortion is also strictly controlled in Ireland.

Following the approval of the eighth amendment, Irish courts initially forbade agencies from helping women in their efforts to organise abortions abroad.

But the 14th amendment voted in by a 1992 referendum, guaranteed the right of an individual to obtain "information relating to services lawfully available in another state".

However, this right was strictly framed by the Regulation of Information Act, adopted in 1995.

This law, among other things, forbids individuals to "advocate or promote" the termination of a pregnancy using "services outside the state".

The act also obliges professionals giving advice to women about abortion to make them aware of all alternatives, encompassing scenarios such as adoption at birth.

Plans for reform

On Friday, Irish voters will be invited to choose whether or not to remove the eighth amendment and replace it with the phrase "provision may be made by law for the regulation of termination of pregnancies".

If the pro-choice vote wins, the government will be tasked with drafting fresh legislation which, if it is passed by parliament, should legalise abortions during the first 12 weeks of a pregnancy and up until 24 weeks for reasons of health.

Ireland's current abortion laws ban all terminations except in cases where the mother's life is at risk

Ireland's current abortion laws ban all terminations except in cases where the mother's life is at risk. Draft legislation already prepared in case of a pro-choice vote in Friday's historic referendum would legalise abortions in the first 12 weeks of pregnancy and up to 24 weeks for health reasons. Here is a rundown of the main legislative points. What the law says The eighth amendment to the Irish constitution, introduced by referendum in 1983, "acknowledges the right to life of the unborn". It forbids abortions, even in cases of rape, incest or where the foetus is malformed. The penalty is 14 years' imprisonment and a fine. In 2012 the death of Savita Halappanavar, a 31-year-old who died of sepsis after a miscarriage when she was denied a medical abortion, outraged public opinion and led to a change in the law. The following year an exception was introduced to the amendment, authorising abortion in cases where there was a mortal risk to the mother, including the risk of suicide. Under this provision, 26 abortions were performed in Ireland in 2014, 26 in 2015 and 25 in 2016. Abortions abroad The 13th amendment of the Irish constitution guarantees an individual "freedom to travel" to other states. More than 168,000 women used this freedom to visit hospitals in England and Wales for abortions between 1980 and 2016, according to British Department of Health statistics compiled by the Irish Family Planning Association. By these figures, around 13 women who give Irish home addresses have abortions in England and Wales every day. In 2011 Irish citizen Amanda Mellet was forced to travel to the city of Liverpool in the north of England to have an abortion when it was discovered the foetus of her child was mortally deformed. Doctors reportedly told her the infant would be born dead or die shortly thereafter. Considering herself to be a victim of unfair Irish legislation, she took her case to the United Nations Human Rights Committee which agreed she was subjected to "cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment". Dublin paid her 30,000 euros ($35,000) in compensation. Information on abortion Spreading information on how to acquire an abortion is also strictly controlled in Ireland. Following the approval of the eighth amendment, Irish courts initially forbade agencies from helping women in their efforts to organise abortions abroad. But the 14th amendment voted in by a 1992 referendum, guaranteed the right of an individual to obtain "information relating to services lawfully available in another state". However, this right was strictly framed by the Regulation of Information Act, adopted in 1995. This law, among other things, forbids individuals to "advocate or promote" the termination of a pregnancy using "services outside the state". The act also obliges professionals giving advice to women about abortion to make them aware of all alternatives, encompassing scenarios such as adoption at birth. Plans for reform On Friday, Irish voters will be invited to choose whether or not to remove the eighth amendment and replace it with the phrase "provision may be made by law for the regulation of termination of pregnancies". If the pro-choice vote wins, the government will be tasked with drafting fresh legislation which, if it is passed by parliament, should legalise abortions during the first 12 weeks of a pregnancy and up until 24 weeks for reasons of health.

The legal landscape of Irish abortion

Irish voters are heading to the polls on Friday to vote in a landmark referendum on whether the country should liberalise some of the strictest abortion laws in Europe.

The campaign has dominated public debate in Ireland over recent months and has forced its nearly 3.5 million voters to decide if the constitutional ban on abortion should stay or go.

Opinion polls have suggested the result could be close, with large numbers of undecided voters hanging in the balance.

Ireland was traditionally one of the most staunchly Roman Catholic countries in Europe. However, the church's influence has waned in recent years following a series of child sex abuse scandals.

The referendum comes three years after Ireland voted to legalise same-sex marriage, in a seismic change for the EU nation.

Voters have from 7:00 am (0600 GMT) until 10:00 pm on Friday to cast their ballots.

The count is to begin at 9:00 am on Saturday, with the result expected to be announced at Dublin Castle later in the day.

Early votes on remote isles

Voters on 12 remote islands in the Atlantic Ocean went to the polls a day early on Thursday to ensure the ballot boxes could be shipped or flown to count centres on the mainland in case of poor weather.

After voters on Gola -- total electorate 29 -- off the Donegal northwest coast cast their ballots, the sealed ballot box was taken back to the mainland on a 10-minute ferry ride by a policeman and an election official.

The eighth amendment to the Irish constitution was installed following a 1983 referendum which approved outlawing abortion.

Subsequent legislation ruled anyone having an abortion could face up to 14 years in jail.

The ban has led to thousands of women travelling each year to neighbouring Britain where terminations are legal, or increasingly turning to abortion pills sold online.

The law was tweaked in 2013 to allow terminations if the mother's life is at risk, following the death of Savita Halappanavar, a pregnant woman originally from India who was refused an abortion.

The Irish government has proposed that if the eighth amendment is repealed, abortion will be allowed up to 12 weeks and between 12 and 24 weeks in exceptional circumstances.

Split views

The debate has split the country.

Gavin Boyne, 20, a philosophy student wearing a pink hoodie from the Love Both pro-life movement, said he owed his life to the eighth amendment.

His mother had accidentally got pregnant and had been sent to England by her parents for a termination, before they had a change of heart.

"My grandparents recognised that I was a unique human being with value and so they couldn't have had me killed. If the eighth amendment wasn't there in 1998, I wouldn't be here today," he said.

Meanwhile Ciara Grealy, 21, from Dublin, said: "I don't know see we should export women to another country to have something that should be done safely and legally here.

"One of my best friends had to do it. She found out she was pregnant the doctors said 'our hands are tied'. She had to get a flight to Liverpool with her parents." She said her friend had found seeing the omnipresent referendum placards distressing.

Activists were out on a final push for votes on Thursday, attempting to convince wavering voters in what has been an emotionally-charged campaign.

Meanwhile city streets are filled with people wearing campaign badges, stickers and tops.

Cian Flaherty, 22, a history student at Dublin's Trinity College, said it was a matter of human rights and "the unborn is a human being".

"Often times, the narrative of choice is a false narrative. A lot of the time, if you feel you've got no support and the only option you have is a termination, I don't think that's a genuine choice," he said.

Caoimhe Mulcahy, 27, an actor from County Clare in western Ireland, said it was a question of women's health and many had "really suffered" with unregulated, unsafe and illegal abortions.

"There isn't one easy solution but people are suffering and we need to change it," she said.

The campaign has dominated public debate in Ireland over recent months and has forced its nearly 3.5 million voters to decide if the constitutional ban on abortion should stay or go

Irish voters are heading to the polls on Friday to vote in a landmark referendum on whether the country should liberalise some of the strictest abortion laws in Europe. The campaign has dominated public debate in Ireland over recent months and has forced its nearly 3.5 million voters to decide if the constitutional ban on abortion should stay or go. Opinion polls have suggested the result could be close, with large numbers of undecided voters hanging in the balance. Ireland was traditionally one of the most staunchly Roman Catholic countries in Europe. However, the church's influence has waned in recent years following a series of child sex abuse scandals. The referendum comes three years after Ireland voted to legalise same-sex marriage, in a seismic change for the EU nation. Voters have from 7:00 am (0600 GMT) until 10:00 pm on Friday to cast their ballots. The count is to begin at 9:00 am on Saturday, with the result expected to be announced at Dublin Castle later in the day. Early votes on remote isles Voters on 12 remote islands in the Atlantic Ocean went to the polls a day early on Thursday to ensure the ballot boxes could be shipped or flown to count centres on the mainland in case of poor weather. After voters on Gola -- total electorate 29 -- off the Donegal northwest coast cast their ballots, the sealed ballot box was taken back to the mainland on a 10-minute ferry ride by a policeman and an election official. The eighth amendment to the Irish constitution was installed following a 1983 referendum which approved outlawing abortion. Subsequent legislation ruled anyone having an abortion could face up to 14 years in jail. The ban has led to thousands of women travelling each year to neighbouring Britain where terminations are legal, or increasingly turning to abortion pills sold online. The law was tweaked in 2013 to allow terminations if the mother's life is at risk, following the death of Savita Halappanavar, a pregnant woman originally from India who was refused an abortion. The Irish government has proposed that if the eighth amendment is repealed, abortion will be allowed up to 12 weeks and between 12 and 24 weeks in exceptional circumstances. Split views The debate has split the country. Gavin Boyne, 20, a philosophy student wearing a pink hoodie from the Love Both pro-life movement, said he owed his life to the eighth amendment. His mother had accidentally got pregnant and had been sent to England by her parents for a termination, before they had a change of heart. "My grandparents recognised that I was a unique human being with value and so they couldn't have had me killed. If the eighth amendment wasn't there in 1998, I wouldn't be here today," he said. Meanwhile Ciara Grealy, 21, from Dublin, said: "I don't know see we should export women to another country to have something that should be done safely and legally here. "One of my best friends had to do it. She found out she was pregnant the doctors said 'our hands are tied'. She had to get a flight to Liverpool with her parents." She said her friend had found seeing the omnipresent referendum placards distressing. Activists were out on a final push for votes on Thursday, attempting to convince wavering voters in what has been an emotionally-charged campaign. Meanwhile city streets are filled with people wearing campaign badges, stickers and tops. Cian Flaherty, 22, a history student at Dublin's Trinity College, said it was a matter of human rights and "the unborn is a human being". "Often times, the narrative of choice is a false narrative. A lot of the time, if you feel you've got no support and the only option you have is a termination, I don't think that's a genuine choice," he said. Caoimhe Mulcahy, 27, an actor from County Clare in western Ireland, said it was a question of women's health and many had "really suffered" with unregulated, unsafe and illegal abortions. "There isn't one easy solution but people are suffering and we need to change it," she said.

Ireland heads to vote in historic abortion referendum

Ireland votes on Friday in an abortion referendum that could be a milestone on a path of change in a country that, only a few decades ago, was one of Europe's most socially conservative.

Polls suggest Irish voters are set to overturn one of the world's strictest bans on terminations. Prime Minister Leo Varadkar, in favour of change, has called the referendum a "once-in-a-generation" chance.

Voters in the once deeply Catholic nation will be asked if they wish to scrap a prohibition that was enshrined in the constitution by referendum 35 year ago, and partly lifted in 2013 only for cases where the mother's life is in danger.

Ireland has been changing fast. It legalised divorce by a razor-thin majority only in 1995, but three years ago became the first country in the world to adopt gay marriage by popular vote.

A decades-old battle over abortion has played out in a fiercely contested debate that divided political parties, saw the once mighty church take a back seat and became a test case for how global internet giants deal with social media advertising in political campaigns.

Unlike in 1983, when religion was front and centre and abortion was a taboo subject for most people, the campaign was instead defined by women on both sides publicly describing their personal experiences of terminations.

"The conversation that has resulted in me going to the ballot box to vote 'Yes' with certainty hasn't been a straightforward one," Deputy Prime Minister Simon Coveney wrote in the Irish Independent newspaper on Thursday.

"I have found it difficult, I have stumbled but I have met extraordinary women and men along the way who have changed my perspectives on this deeply emotive issue."

"Yes" campaigners like Coveney have argued that with over 3,000 women travelling to Britain each year for terminations and others ordering pills illegally online, abortion is already a reality in Ireland.

Government plans ''extreme''

Although not on the ballot paper, the "No" camp has seized on government plans to allow terminations with no restriction up to 12 weeks into a pregnancy if the referendum is carried, calling it a step too far for most voters.

"More and more people are realising that this government has planned to introduce an extreme abortion law, the only way to stop this is to vote 'No'," said Mary Butler, an anti-abortion lawmaker from the main opposition party, Fianna Fail.

Opinion polls have put those who favour changing the law in a clear lead. The two most recent surveys showed the "Yes" side pulling further ahead.

Polling stations close at 2100 GMT and national broadcaster RTE plans to publish an exit poll at 2230 GMT. The first indications of the result are expected mid-morning on Saturday, after the count begins at 0800 GMT.

Many expatriate Irish have travelled home to vote in one of the few European Union countries that does not allow those abroad to vote via post or in embassies.

Those away for less than 18 months remain eligible to vote at their former local polling station, and a majority appeared to back change.

Analysts said a high turnout, particularly in urban areas, would likely favour the "Yes" side.

"If anything, I'm sitting a little bit more comfortably after the last week having viewed the debates and the general moods and commentary of the 'No' camp," said Richard Colwell, chief executive of Red C, whose latest poll on Sunday showed 56 per cent for, 27 per cent against and 14 per cent still undecided.

"But that's what everybody thought when Brexit happened. We can't be complacent about it but it does appear that it's going to be a 'Yes' vote at this stage."

Polls suggest Irish voters are set to overturn one of the world's strictest bans on terminations

Ireland votes on Friday in an abortion referendum that could be a milestone on a path of change in a country that, only a few decades ago, was one of Europe's most socially conservative. Polls suggest Irish voters are set to overturn one of the world's strictest bans on terminations. Prime Minister Leo Varadkar, in favour of change, has called the referendum a "once-in-a-generation" chance. Voters in the once deeply Catholic nation will be asked if they wish to scrap a prohibition that was enshrined in the constitution by referendum 35 year ago, and partly lifted in 2013 only for cases where the mother's life is in danger. Ireland has been changing fast. It legalised divorce by a razor-thin majority only in 1995, but three years ago became the first country in the world to adopt gay marriage by popular vote. A decades-old battle over abortion has played out in a fiercely contested debate that divided political parties, saw the once mighty church take a back seat and became a test case for how global internet giants deal with social media advertising in political campaigns. Unlike in 1983, when religion was front and centre and abortion was a taboo subject for most people, the campaign was instead defined by women on both sides publicly describing their personal experiences of terminations. "The conversation that has resulted in me going to the ballot box to vote 'Yes' with certainty hasn't been a straightforward one," Deputy Prime Minister Simon Coveney wrote in the Irish Independent newspaper on Thursday. "I have found it difficult, I have stumbled but I have met extraordinary women and men along the way who have changed my perspectives on this deeply emotive issue." "Yes" campaigners like Coveney have argued that with over 3,000 women travelling to Britain each year for terminations and others ordering pills illegally online, abortion is already a reality in Ireland. Government plans ''extreme'' Although not on the ballot paper, the "No" camp has seized on government plans to allow terminations with no restriction up to 12 weeks into a pregnancy if the referendum is carried, calling it a step too far for most voters. "More and more people are realising that this government has planned to introduce an extreme abortion law, the only way to stop this is to vote 'No'," said Mary Butler, an anti-abortion lawmaker from the main opposition party, Fianna Fail. Opinion polls have put those who favour changing the law in a clear lead. The two most recent surveys showed the "Yes" side pulling further ahead. Polling stations close at 2100 GMT and national broadcaster RTE plans to publish an exit poll at 2230 GMT. The first indications of the result are expected mid-morning on Saturday, after the count begins at 0800 GMT. Many expatriate Irish have travelled home to vote in one of the few European Union countries that does not allow those abroad to vote via post or in embassies. Those away for less than 18 months remain eligible to vote at their former local polling station, and a majority appeared to back change. Analysts said a high turnout, particularly in urban areas, would likely favour the "Yes" side. "If anything, I'm sitting a little bit more comfortably after the last week having viewed the debates and the general moods and commentary of the 'No' camp," said Richard Colwell, chief executive of Red C, whose latest poll on Sunday showed 56 per cent for, 27 per cent against and 14 per cent still undecided. "But that's what everybody thought when Brexit happened. We can't be complacent about it but it does appear that it's going to be a 'Yes' vote at this stage."

Ireland votes in 'once-in-a-generation' abortion referendum

Ireland will hold a referendum on liberalising its restrictive abortion laws at the end of May, Prime Minister Leo Varadkar announced Monday.

Accepting it would be a difficult decision for voters to make in the traditionally deeply Catholic country, Varadkar said he would be advocating a Yes vote, convinced that abortion no longer had a place in the republic&#39;s constitution.

&quot;This evening, the cabinet gave formal approval to the holding of a referendum on abortion, which will be held at the end of May,&quot; Varadkar said at a press conference in Dublin, following a lengthy meeting with ministers.

He said the exact date would be known following the conclusion of debates in parliament.

Abortion has always been illegal in Ireland and in 1983 an eighth amendment was added to the constitution after a referendum, giving equal rights to the life of the unborn child and the mother.

The law was changed three decades later to allow terminations when the mother&#39;s life is at risk, following public outrage at the death of a pregnant woman in 2012 who was refused an abortion.

Varadkar said debates and votes would be held in the lower and upper houses of parliament, but he was &quot;confident this timeline can be met&quot; for a referendum in late May.

The Irish Times newspaper said its research in recent weeks found comfortable majorities in both houses in favour of a referendum.

&quot;I know this will be a difficult decision for the Irish people to make,&quot; said Varadkar, who leads the centre-right Fine Gael party.

&quot;It is a very personal and private issue and for most of us, it&#39;s not a black and white issue; it&#39;s one that is grey. A balance between the rights of a pregnant woman and the foetus or unborn.

&quot;And it&#39;s a matter for people to make their own decision, based on the evidence they hear, compassion and empathy.

&quot;I want the debate to be respectful on all sides and it should never be personalised.&quot;

The referendum would be held ahead of a visit by Pope Francis in August.

Varadkar, who trained as a doctor, believes the current laws are too restrictive.

Thousands of Irish women currently travel abroad for abortions every year, mainly to England.

In a referendum in May 2015, Ireland voted by a landslide in favour of legalising same-sex marriage, a watershed moment which showed how the country had dramatically changed, confirming its emergence from the shadow of the traditionally powerful Catholic Church. 
&nbsp;

Abortion has always been illegal in Ireland

Ireland will hold a referendum on liberalising its restrictive abortion laws at the end of May, Prime Minister Leo Varadkar announced Monday. Accepting it would be a difficult decision for voters to make in the traditionally deeply Catholic country, Varadkar said he would be advocating a Yes vote, convinced that abortion no longer had a place in the republic's constitution. "This evening, the cabinet gave formal approval to the holding of a referendum on abortion, which will be held at the end of May," Varadkar said at a press conference in Dublin, following a lengthy meeting with ministers. He said the exact date would be known following the conclusion of debates in parliament. Abortion has always been illegal in Ireland and in 1983 an eighth amendment was added to the constitution after a referendum, giving equal rights to the life of the unborn child and the mother. The law was changed three decades later to allow terminations when the mother's life is at risk, following public outrage at the death of a pregnant woman in 2012 who was refused an abortion. Varadkar said debates and votes would be held in the lower and upper houses of parliament, but he was "confident this timeline can be met" for a referendum in late May. The Irish Times newspaper said its research in recent weeks found comfortable majorities in both houses in favour of a referendum. "I know this will be a difficult decision for the Irish people to make," said Varadkar, who leads the centre-right Fine Gael party. "It is a very personal and private issue and for most of us, it's not a black and white issue; it's one that is grey. A balance between the rights of a pregnant woman and the foetus or unborn. "And it's a matter for people to make their own decision, based on the evidence they hear, compassion and empathy. "I want the debate to be respectful on all sides and it should never be personalised." The referendum would be held ahead of a visit by Pope Francis in August. Varadkar, who trained as a doctor, believes the current laws are too restrictive. Thousands of Irish women currently travel abroad for abortions every year, mainly to England. In a referendum in May 2015, Ireland voted by a landslide in favour of legalising same-sex marriage, a watershed moment which showed how the country had dramatically changed, confirming its emergence from the shadow of the traditionally powerful Catholic Church.

Ireland to hold abortion referendum at end of May

Ireland will hold a referendum next year on whether to repeal its constitutional ban on&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/supreme-court-allows-13-year-old-rape-victim-to-terminate-31-week-old-pregnancy-19938" target="_blank">abortion</a>&nbsp;in almost all cases -- just a few weeks before Pope Francis visits, the government said Tuesday.

Prime Minister Leo Varadkar has previously said the eighth amendment, which makes&nbsp;abortion&nbsp;illegal unless there is a real and substantial risk to the life of the mother, was &quot;too restrictive&quot;.

His government agreed Tuesday to hold the vote in &quot;May or June 2018&quot; -- just before the pope visits in August to attend the World Meeting of Families.

Abortion&nbsp;has always been illegal in Ireland but was inserted into the constitution in 1983 following a referendum, in which 67 percent of voters were in favour and 33 percent against.

A woman convicted of having an illegal termination faces 14 years imprisonment.

However, women are free to travel abroad for abortions and thousands do so every year, mainly to England.

Opinion polls in recent years have consistently indicated strong support for reform in Ireland, which remains largely Catholic but where scandals have dented the church&#39;s authority.

Last year, the UN Human Rights Committee found Ireland&#39;s&nbsp;abortion&nbsp;laws &quot;cruel, inhuman and degrading&quot;.

The referendum was announced as the government set out a timetable for several votes over the next two years, including one on Ireland&#39;s controversial anti-blasphemy law.

In 2015, Ireland became the first country in the world to legalise gay marriage in a referendum.

Varadkar said in a statement: &quot;Any amendment to our constitution requires careful consideration by the people. They should be given ample time to consider the issues and to take part in a well-informed public debate.

&quot;Setting a timetable for the referendum to be held over the next two years will allow all involved in campaigning on the issues to plan ahead and to facilitate that public debate.&quot;

Ireland will a referendum next year to repeal its constitutional ban on abortion

Ireland will hold a referendum next year on whether to repeal its constitutional ban on abortion in almost all cases -- just a few weeks before Pope Francis visits, the government said Tuesday. Prime Minister Leo Varadkar has previously said the eighth amendment, which makes abortion illegal unless there is a real and substantial risk to the life of the mother, was "too restrictive". His government agreed Tuesday to hold the vote in "May or June 2018" -- just before the pope visits in August to attend the World Meeting of Families. Abortion has always been illegal in Ireland but was inserted into the constitution in 1983 following a referendum, in which 67 percent of voters were in favour and 33 percent against. A woman convicted of having an illegal termination faces 14 years imprisonment. However, women are free to travel abroad for abortions and thousands do so every year, mainly to England. Opinion polls in recent years have consistently indicated strong support for reform in Ireland, which remains largely Catholic but where scandals have dented the church's authority. Last year, the UN Human Rights Committee found Ireland's abortion laws "cruel, inhuman and degrading". The referendum was announced as the government set out a timetable for several votes over the next two years, including one on Ireland's controversial anti-blasphemy law. In 2015, Ireland became the first country in the world to legalise gay marriage in a referendum. Varadkar said in a statement: "Any amendment to our constitution requires careful consideration by the people. They should be given ample time to consider the issues and to take part in a well-informed public debate. "Setting a timetable for the referendum to be held over the next two years will allow all involved in campaigning on the issues to plan ahead and to facilitate that public debate."

Will hold abortion referendum in 2018: Ireland

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