There is a high level of participation in referendum on abolition of strict ban on abortion in Irish constitution. This was reported by Public service Irish Broadcasting company RTÉ. The government of Prime Minister Leo Varadkar called on approximately 3.2 million voters to vote in favour of deletion of Eighth Amendment to Constitution, reby clearing way for more liberal legislation on abortion. "It's a big yes of mine," premier tweeted after voting.
It's a big yes from me. Toger2Vote Toger4Yes repeal8th VoteYes 8thref pic.twitter.com/ExMVuVga2p
— Leo Varadkar (@campaignforleo) May 25, 2018Many people chose on way to work and wore "I voted"-Badges. In newspapers, emotional appeals were to be read. For example, in letters to editorial office of Irish Independent newspaper: "If we vote Yes, every unborn, intentional and unintentional, will have zero rights," wrote a woman. "I don't think cunning people of Ireland want this unrestricted abortion-on-demand law. I will vote No. "
Supporters of a loosening of strict laws welcomed Irish voters at airport who came specially for vote from abroad. "Welcome Home", stood on posters and "Thank you for this trip so that or women don't have to do it."
At a welcome home reception at Dublin Airport last night, yes supporters had come from as far afield as US, Europe, Argentina, Iraq, Australia and Vietnam. A couple cut ir honeymoon shorts in Japan. Https://t.co/XWkWnvyxi1
— Irish Times Life (@IrishTimesLife) May 25, 2018 strictest ban on abortion in EUThe Catholic Irish Republic is one of most stringent bans on abortion in European Union. By constitutional addition of 1983, unborn children are equally protected in ir right to life as ir mors. According to critics, abortion in country is virtually impossible.
Anyone who violates it can be punished with up to 14 years in prison. Even after a rape, abortion is prohibited in Ireland. Thousands of Irish girls travel to UK every year to get ir abortion.
In opinion polls, proponents of a loosening of laws were at last just ahead. Tens of thousands of Irish girls and Irish living abroad are reported to have travelled to ir homeland for referendum. Could be chosen only on site, a postal vote was not possible. The UN Human Rights Committee had criticized abortion ban 2016 as a violation of international human right agreements and called on Irish government to revise it.
The count of votes cast will not take place until Saturday. Forecasts for exit were expected at night.
If Yes camp were to win, new abortion laws would be drafted in Parliament. The government of Varadkar suggests that abortions be allowed during first 12 weeks of pregnancy. Abortions at a later date should refore be allowed in special cases.