Abortion service

Press, 29 June 1985, Page 18

Abortion service

Sir,—Mr McGuigan, a senior member of the Canterbury Hospital Board, is reported as stating that pro-life groups participating in city vigils are flouting the law for their own particular needs. This is a serious and disturbing allegation from a respected and distinguished member of the board. It is a cherished right in a democracy to enjoy freedom of speech and assembly. There are many in our community who cannot and will not remain silent in the face of the denial of the right to live of New Zealanders while still in the womb. The public are entitled to know that the vigils are silent, peaceful and lawful. They support the truth that all human life is precious and should be respected and protected. Mr McGuigan should substantiate his charge of flouting the law or make a public retraction.—Yours, etc., K. ORR. June 28, 1985.

Sir,—With reference to the staffing of Lyndhurst Clinic, Dr Jocelyn Hay questions the fate of patients with possibly unwanted children in the future. With 60 couples continually on the waiting list for adoption I can not see any unwanted babies — there is no such thing. In my opinion the babies’ welfare is first priority.—Yours, etc., MRS B. J. BEEBY. Kaiapoi, June 27, 1985.

Sir,—This letter is to thank the surgpon who has tried to sustain a safe and legal abortion sendee in

our community. In all societies some women resort to abortion when other methods of birth control fail. In civilised modern societies this procedure is sanctioned by the State and acknowledged by the medical profession as part of normal gynaecological care. In recent years a good post-abortion follow-up service has been established in Christchurch. This includes counselling and education and attention to specific contraceptive needs. I am glad to have been able to help provide this service and intend to continue to do so for a long time to come.—Yours, etc., PEGGY MALPRESS. June 25, 1985. Sir,—lt is with some hope of reason prevailing that I read the comments of Canterbury Hospital Board members, Dr J. Hay and Mr T. McGuigan that the board will support medical professionals prepared to work for the care of women in our community. That women have been deprived of the professional help they desperately need because of intimidation by a pro-life action group is a gross violation by them of the personal rights of others. One hopes that the members of this group are as antiwar as they are pro-life.—Yours, etc., JULIA DE FRIEZ. June 27, 1985.