Madrid, Spain, Aug 23, 2012 / 11:04 am
The government of the Balearic Islands is slated to propose legislation aimed at helping pregnant women in difficult situations, and to encourage them not to undergo an abortion.
After a meeting with Antoni Mesquida – leader of the islands' Department of Health – local spokesman for Right to Life Juan Jose Tenorio said the law will not "require" women to continue with their pregnancies, but is only intended to help them "choose freely."
In remarks to Europa Press on Aug. 22, he noted that ultimately the "objective is to help the birth rate" increase in the western Mediterranean island community.
According to Tenorio, Mesquida's department is drafting the measure and will send it to parliament when the next legislative session begins in September.
Tenorio said the health department and society in general should help pregnant women in need so they can "save their pregnancies and not abort, always taking into account that women's freedom should be respected."
"The priority should be that they choose freely," he said, arguing that women are not being given adequate information on alternatives to the procedure, despite requirements to the contrary under Spain's current abortion law.
Subscribe to our daily newsletter
At Catholic News Agency, our team is committed to reporting the truth with courage, integrity, and fidelity to our faith. We provide news about the Church and the world, as seen through the teachings of the Catholic Church. When you subscribe to the CNA UPDATE, we'll send you a daily email with links to the news you need and, occasionally, breaking news.
As part of this free service you may receive occasional offers from us at EWTN News and EWTN. We won't rent or sell your information, and you can unsubscribe at any time.
Click hereOur mission is the truth. Join us!
Your monthly donation will help our team continue reporting the truth, with fairness, integrity, and fidelity to Jesus Christ and his Church.
Donate to CNA