16/06/2026
Tonight, Sinn Féin will bring forward legislation to remove the mandatory three-day waiting period for abortion care in early pregnancy.
For years now, women, healthcare workers and campaigners have raised concerns about the impact this waiting period has had. For many, it has added unnecessary stress and anxiety at an already difficult time.
The reality is that women do not make this decision lightly. They have already thought it through and nobody should be forced by law to wait when they have already made their decision. If someone wants more time, that option will always be there.
We've seen how the three-day wait has created real barriers to accessing care, particularly where there are difficulties getting GP appointments or living in areas where services are limited.
It can be especially difficult for women experiencing domestic and intimate partner abuse or recovering from sexual violence.
This change is about treating women with compassion, dignity and respect. It's about trusting them and making sure they can access healthcare when they need it, without unnecessary delays or barriers being put in their way.
I hope TDs across the Dáil will support this legislation tonight.
