Referendum on Abortion Reform

Irish referendum on abortion reform to be held by end of May

Question: Prime Minister of which of the following countries recently announced a referendum regarding the removal of stringent laws on abortion in the country?
(a) Norway
(b) Sweden
(c) Ireland
(d) Australia
Answer: (c) 
Related Facts:

  • In January 2018, the Prime Minister of Ireland Leo Varadkar announced a referendum regarding the removal of stringent laws on abortion in the country.
  • On January 30th, 2018, Leo Varadkar of Indian origin had convened a special meeting of Cabinet for detailed discussion regarding referendum on the eighth Amendment in the Constitution of Ireland.
  • During this referendum, voters will be asked whether they want to uphold the amendment or take it back or they want to give full authority to legislation on abortion.
  • Referendum will be held between May-June, 2018.
  • It is noteworthy that an amendment in 1983 in Irish constitution recognizes the equal rights to life of a foetus and the mother during pregnancy.
  • In this country of Roman Catholicism, there is strict restriction against abortion in comparison to entire Europe.
  • Abortion permission is granted only in rare cases when the woman’s life is in danger.

Reference:
https://www.theguardian.com/world/2018/jan/29/ireland-to-greenlight-referendum-on-abortion-law-reform
https://www.theguardian.com/world/2018/jan/26/majority-in-ireland-in-favour-of-relaxing-abortion-laws-poll
https://edition.cnn.com/2018/01/29/europe/ireland-abortion-referendum-intl/index.html