Ireland’s abortion controversy re-sparked by pregnant woman’s death

The Irish law on abortion comes under fire again after a woman has died despite asking for a termination

13:11 15 November 2012

It was revealed on Wednesday that a woman has died following her request to have an abortion, which was allegedly refused. Savita Halappanavar, aged 31, was 17 weeks pregnant and died at University Hospital Galway, Ireland, on October 28th.

It is understood that Mrs. Halappanavar had suffered back pains and requested to have a termination, but reportedly doctors would not grant this as the foetus’ heartbeat could be heard. She died days after her baby died.

The news has led to more controversy being sparked off surrounding the case of abortions in Ireland, with more calls for the government to change abortion legislation.

Galway University Hospital is expected to carry out an investigation into Mrs. Halappanavar’s death, and according to a statement released on Wednesday, the Health and Safety Executive of Ireland has said there will be plans made for an independent review.

Many protestors gathered in Dublin on Wednesday night and were based outside the Irish parliament to express their views on abortion laws.

Mr. Halappanavar said in one report by the Irish Times: “It has been a terrible few weeks, very hard to understand how this can happen in the 21st century, very hard to explain to her family.”

Mrs. Halappanavar and her husband, Praveen, both came from India to live in Ireland. It is understood Mrs. Halappanavar will rest in her native country India.

In the Republic of Ireland, abortion is against the law unless there is an extensive risk to the pregnant mother’s life. This is in line with Ireland’s Supreme Court rule that dates back to 1992.