Dublin, Jan 1 (IANS): A law permitting abortion for the first time in Ireland has come into force, more than a year after the death of an Indian woman, who was refused abortion, highlighted the lack of legal clarity.
The Protection of Life During Pregnancy Act, which was passed in July last year, allows terminations where there is a threat to the life of the mother, BBC reported.
The new law will also be applicable where doctors agree the expectant mother may take her own life over her pregnancy.
However, the government said the new law does not weaken the general prohibition on abortion.
Savita Halappanavar, a 31-year-old Indian dentist, was admitted to hospital in Galway while miscarrying in October 2012. Her request for an abortion was turned down, and she died a week later from septicaemia.