Given the circumstances (laws, catholic hospital, etc), do you believe that her doctor acted appropriately?
Very unfortunate that this had happened. First, in all cases, the government doesn't have
any right to justify abortion or any other health-related matter. That matter solely lies on the hands between physicians and patients. The government should stay away from social issues, as it's none of their business. Clearly, the Irish government's interference in social issues is
completely unwarranted. Government invading personal and social issues is a sign of corruption.
As
LizzyM pointed out, the Irish Supreme Court supported the right to perform abortion in the case of affecting the mother's health. But, I think the physicians were hesitant in conducting prompt treatment, fearing prosecution. Thus, this matter is the government's fault. The government has no right getting involved in people's private matters, especially in health-related matters. This is completely a pathetic move on the Irish government's part.
Don't physicians have the right to not perform a procedure they feel morally wrong, regardless if it's an abortion?
I'm not speaking of right and wrong - just curious.
Interesting though: I completely disagree with abortion. The fetus is a living human being. Just because it's in the womb, doesn't make it disposable.
However, if the fetus poses a threat to the mother's life, something must be done to prevent her death. If the fetus isn't aborted, the mother will die, along with the fetus in most cases. You either let both die, or save one. I choose for saving one. In all other cases, I would agree with not to aborting.
I'm also pro-life, and it's a good idea to refer patients to other doctors if uncomfortable in conducting the procedure. But, that's a
personal decision made by the doctor. This shouldn't be enforced by the government. Ireland appears like a theocracy.