This is my Article of The Day.
Because I know the topic of abortion is something every man and his dog has an opinion on, I figured it might be a good subject for the first blog post on my new, very stylish, theme! The website I got it from is linked in the bottom of the blockquote, unless you want to read it there.
Judge questions legality of some abortions
A High Court judge has questioned whether some abortions being performed in New Zealand are legal. Justice Miller’s decision has been released following a judicial review of the Abortion Supervisory Committee. Lobby group Right to Life sought the review, claiming abortion is available on request in New Zealand, contrary to laws. In his decision, Justice Miller says there may be inconsistencies in the way abortion consultants are using mental health as grounds for an abortion. He says the Abortion Supervisory Committee realises consultants are taking a more liberal approach than intended. Justice Miller also found the committee can look at consultants’ decisions in order to review operation of the abortion law.
A little bit of background on abortion laws in NZ. Obviously it’s legal here, but it’s not just provided "on demand". At least two medical professionals have to be satisfied that the abortion is necessary because if the woman continues with her pregnancy, her mental or physical health, or even her life, will be in danger.
Herein lies the problem that seems to have arisen. It seems that some abortions may have been provided when they did not meet the criteria that constituted them as "necessary", and obviously, pro-life groups are up in arms about this.
What is your view on abortion? Should it be available on demand, available with restrictions, or prohibited completely?
Debate is welcome, both with other commenters and with me (I do have an opinion, I’m just not going to post it yet!), but abusive/offensive messages will be removed.
P.S: Does anybody know how to get rid of the large space between the comment link and the start of the post? It’s driving me a little bit crazy! o.O
