Two Lanarkshire MSPs have teamed as much as again buffer zones round Scotland’s abortion clinics.
Scottish Labour’s Monica Lennon has been calling for the introduction of buffer zones to guard girls accessing sexual well being and abortion providers within the wake of escalating protests round clinics and hospitals.
Nicola Sturgeon agreed to host the summit after receiving a letter from Monica and greater than a dozen organisations, together with Again Off Scotland and Rape Disaster Scotland, calling for her pressing intervention on assaults on abortion rights.
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Following the summit – held in Edinburgh on June 27 – Ms Sturgeon stated the Scottish Authorities would wish to discover a ‘nationwide legislative resolution’ to the problem.
Monica, who's the Convenor of the Scottish Parliament’s Cross-Get together Group on Girls’s Well being, has additionally appealed to the general public to participate in a nationwide session on buffer zone proposals.
These proposals have been launched by means of a Non-public Member’s Invoice from Lanarkshire Inexperienced MSP Gillian Mackay to implement anti-abortion buffer zones outdoors hospitals and clinics throughout Scotland to guard girls from harassment.
Monica stated: “Anti-choice campaigners have develop into extra emboldened with orchestrated gatherings happening frequently in Glasgow and Edinburgh.
“This harassment is having an affect on my constituents from Lanarkshire and Falkirk, together with these accessing specialist providers at Glasgow’s Sandyford clinic.
“It's also taking its toll on healthcare employees who've been filmed and shouted at.
“I used to be happy to be invited by the First Minister to attend the summit, and on the entire, discovered it was a constructive and constructive assembly.
“The First Minister listened to representatives from third sector organisations, native authorities, the police, NHS and campaigners, in addition to members from throughout the events, and promised she would have a look at quick and long-term actions.
“Nevertheless, the Scottish Authorities should not be allowed to go to sleep on the wheel on this problem.
“And that’s why Gillian Mackay MSP’s Invoice to implement buffer zones at clinics and hospitals throughout Scotland is required to ensure protected entry.
“I encourage individuals to have their say and reply to the session earlier than it closes on August 11.
“This isn't about silencing individuals with anti-choice views; it’s about ensuring the privateness of people accessing healthcare is revered.
“Nobody ought to face harassment or intimidation when looking for confidential medical care.
“The Scottish Authorities should do all it may well to assist the Invoice and ensure it progresses at tempo.”
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