Update Re Working Group on Fatal Foetal Abnormality

Health Minister Simon Hamilton today provided an update on the issue of fatal foetal abnormality.

He said: “In advance of the Consideration Stage of the Justice Bill, the First Minister tasked me to establish a working group to consider and make recommendations regarding the issue of fatal foetal abnormality.

“At last week’s Executive meeting, some Ministers suggested the possibility of establishing such a working group so that it involves the Department of Justice, whilst others mooted the possibility of creating it on a cross-Executive basis. I believe that the issues raised by other parties in the Executive are worth considering. I will therefore take some time to discuss the matter further with other Ministers before finally deciding the best way forward to address this important issue.

“Fatal foetal abnormality has proved a sensitive and controversial matter which requires careful and measured consideration. The views of clinicians in this field and those from a legal background will be important, and the working group will also consult with interested parties including those who have been affected.
“I remain fully determined to meet the commitment for the working group to report within six months.”

Notes to editors: 

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