Vigil organised to mark anniversary of Savita Halappanavar’s death

This Saturday, October 28, marks the fifth anniversary of Savita Halappanavar's death – an event which serves as a tragic reminder of the “watertight medical rationale” for legalising abortion in Ireland.

The Coalition to Repeal the Eight Amendment is organising a vigil at 4pm on Saturday outside the GPO on O'Connell Street, Dublin 1.

Announcing details of the vigil today, Ailbhe Smyth, Convenor of the Coalition, said: “The medical rationale for abortion is watertight. In cases like Savita’s, abortion saves lives.”

“As we’re marking the fifth anniversary of Savita’s very sad death, an Oireachtas Committee is considering what should be done about the Eighth Amendment.  The Committee has heard from leading experts on maternity healthcare in recent weeks.  Their opinion was unequivocal: if it weren’t for the Eighth Amendment, Savita Halappanavar would be alive today.”

“For once in Ireland, we need to take on board the lessons from our past.  We need to ensure that no more women die in the sort of tragic circumstances experienced by Savita Halappanavar.”

Vigil marking the 5th anniversary of the death of Savita Halappanavar, Saturday 28 October, 4pm, the GPO #NeverAgain https://t.co/fla23BigVW pic.twitter.com/0Sf9e7bUVf

— Labour|DublinCentral (@LabourDublinCen) October 22, 2017

For those who do not live in Dublin, but would like to attend, there are over 20 additional vigils taking place across the country.

All vigils will be silent and those in attendance are invited to bring flowers and candles if they wish.

For more information, click here.

The Coalition to Repeal the Eighth Amendment is an alliance of over 100 organisations including human rights, feminist and pro-choice organisations, trade unions, health organisations, NGOs, community organisations and many others.

Its members agree that the Eight Amendment must be repealed in order to the lives of women in Ireland.

Feature Image: Twitter