Dutch Deny License for Abortions on Ship

Irish Official Calls Project a Publicity Stunt

Share this Entry

DUBLIN, Ireland, JUNE 15, 2001 (Zenit.org).- The pro-abortion Women on Waves Foundation has put off its plan to offer surgical abortions in international waters off Ireland, after the Dutch government denied it a health license for such practice.

The news arrived shortly after the Sea of Changes ship docked in Dublin´s port Thursday. The ship´s spokesman, Joke Van Krampen, said the Women on Waves Foundation hopes to get the permission soon, after a thorough health inspection. CNN reported that some organizers, in the meantime, said they would use the RU-486 pill to perform any abortions.

The Sea of Changes, a Dutch fishing trawler formerly named Aurora, was equipped by the foundation to carry out abortions in international waters, disregarding the legislation of countries like Ireland, which prohibit such a practice.

The ship has two Dutch doctors, a nurse and seven crew members. It is scheduled to be in Dublin for a week before going to Cork, in the south of Ireland.

Irish Health Minister Michael Martin labeled the incident a «publicity stunt,» and said the ship will have to comply with Irish laws while in Irish waters.

Share this Entry

ZENIT Staff

Support ZENIT

If you liked this article, support ZENIT now with a donation