Workers’ Party representative in Meath, Séamus McDonagh, has welcomed the large yes vote in favour of the repeal of the 8th amendment.
Speaking following the referendum, McDonagh said:
“This referendum was a resounding victory for women’s equality, nowhere less than in Meath. 69% voted in favour of ending Ireland’s medieval ban on abortion in Meath East. The emphatic result represents a victory for common sense, for equality and for a new secular Ireland.
“When hundreds of people turned out to leaflet and canvas for repeal in Meath, it was clear that change was in the air but nobody could have anticipated the overwhelming scale of the vote to repeal.”
McDonagh continued:
“I actively campaigned against the 8th amendment in 1983, and can tell you we have come a long way. I am very proud of the shift which has taken place in Kells and right across Meath in the past number of decades.”
The Workers’ Party spokesperson concluded:
‘’Friday’s vote is a huge step forward for women’s equality in Ireland. We must now refocus on ensuring that abortion care is truly available to all women who need it – by making sure it is free at the point of access, without charge and without delay.”