The Irish Congress of Trade Unions opposed the inclusion of the 8thamendment in the Constitution back in 1983 and our position remains unchanged: we are supporting repeal of the 8th in the forthcoming referendum.
We believe that repeal is necessary in order to achieve a more compassionate Ireland, one in which restrictions on women's healthcare are removed from the Constitution. It would then be a matter for our elected representatives in the Oireachtas to legislate for the introduction of a regulated, comprehensive and quality healthcare service that is safe for women and girls, in line with international norms.
It is our view that the 8th amendment prevents this from happening and should now be repealed.