Urgent Call for Protocols to Protect Babies Born Alive After Abortion

02.12.2025

Independent Ireland TD Ken O’Flynn has raised alarm over the absence of national standards in Ireland for babies who survive late-term abortions. In recent parliamentary replies, it was confirmed that no clinical protocols or reporting systems exist to guide hospitals in these tragic situations. O’Flynn described this as a shocking governance failure in an area where compassion and professionalism should be paramount.

The Cork North-Central deputy has urged the Government to act immediately by publishing clear clinical guidance, introducing mandatory reporting requirements, and releasing the number of cases since abortion was legalised in 2019. Transparency, he argues, is essential to ensure accountability and proper care for the most vulnerable.

Figures disclosed earlier this year revealed that in 2022 alone, 12 babies were born alive after abortion procedures but died soon afterwards. Further information has established that at least 84 babies were born alive between 2019 and 2022. These revelations have prompted calls for an urgent investigation into how these infants are treated in Irish hospitals.

The lack of clarity around what hospitals mean by “comfort care” has caused deep concern. Without defined standards, there is no guarantee that babies who survive abortion are given the dignity and medical attention they deserve.

Deputy O’Flynn’s intervention is a welcome step toward justice. His call highlights the urgent need for protocols that ensure every child born alive, regardless of circumstances, is afforded the highest level of care. For pro-life advocates, this is not only a matter of governance but of humanity itself.