Abortion Campaigner Withdraws from Event after Controversy

27.04.2018

A prominent abortion rights activist pulled out of an event where she was due to share a podium with the leader of the Fine Gael “yes” campaign. The decision followed controversy over offensive remarks she made about the late TD Peter Mathews.

Janet Ní Shúilleabháin, former spokeswoman for the Abortion Rights Campaign was due to speak alongside Minister Josepha Madigan, at the launch of Roscommon Together for Yes. The minister, who is co-ordinating those Fine Gael members who are seeking a Yes vote in the abortion referendum came under pressure for planning to share a platform with a person who sent a tweet celebrating the death of former TD Peter Mathews. “Frankly I am glad he is dead,” she tweeted, due to Mr Mathews’ staunch pro-life convictions.

In a statement, the Together for Yes campaign said Ms Ní Shúilleabháin would be attending at the event in a personal capacity along with other women sharing their abortion stories.

The Times. April 15. Irish Independent. April 13.