Moves this week for parliamentarians to vote on motions requiring abortions to be mainstreamed in public hospital system are premature, says the Australian Christian Lobby.
“There is no way these motions should be voted on without some form of public consultation. MPs are essentially voting blind,” warned ACL Tasmanian director Mark Brown.
“Before any move to make abortion more accessible is considered, every possible option must be explored to make sure more women aren’t coerced into having abortions. We know this is already a problem which goes unaddressed.
“The decriminalisation of abortion back in 2013 does not mean Tasmanians believe abortions should be treated just like any other operation.
“In fact, 2013 polling showed quite the opposite – the majority of Tasmanians oppose abortions when there is a healthy mother and baby – which is the case in 95 per cent of abortions,” Mr Brown said.
“Mother’s with unexpected pregnancies need support and to be fully informed of their options and the consequences of each.
“Abortion is unlike any other operation because it ends the life of an innocent child, and mothers instinctively know this.
“Mainstreaming abortions in public hospitals will only lead to more young Tasmanians’ lives being cut short and their mothers harmed. Most Tasmanians would likely not support this. The ending of a life is anything but routine.”
A prayer vigil on parliament lawns at 1pm Wednesday June 13 aims to highlight community concerns around this issue and offer prayers for parliamentarians and for mums and babies.
