Sinn Féin MLA Liz Kimmins has welcomed progress on legislation to establish safe access zones outside healthcare clinics to protect women.

Speaking following an Assembly debate on the issue, the Newry/Armagh MLA said:

“There has been a concerted campaign of intimidation and harassment against patients accessing their right to healthcare over recent months.

“No one should be faced with the type of disturbing imagery which has been displayed at these protests – patients and healthcare workers should be protected.

“Many countries already have safe access zones, including Australia and Canada. It’s important that we have laws in place to protect women and ensure these protests do not take place outside hospitals.

“I welcome legislation discussed today in the Assembly which will support the introduction of safe access zones for people seeking health care.”