Ireland urged to redefine abortion laws after pregnant woman's death

The tragic death of Savita Halappavanar, who was denied an abortion that activists say might have saved her life, is being followed by harsh criticism of Ireland’s laws on reproductive rights, which include some of the world's strongest restrictions on abortion. Thousands protested Wednesday to show their outrage over the Indian woman’s miscarriage and death from septicemia 17 weeks into her pregnancy. Deputy Prime Minister Eamon Gilmore responded with decisive remarks to the Irish Parliament, saying, "I don’t think as a country we should allow a situation where women’s rights are put at risk this way," and pledging more clarity on abortion laws. [Source]

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