The tragic abortion case has become a media circus

Days after a young girl was criminalised due to being pregnant and having nowhere to turn in Northern Ireland, the media circus continues.

Howls of derision for the decision of the judge to give a suspended sentence come from election candidates. Precious Life, an organisation which harasses and intimidates women seeking lawful abortion information, are intent on putting this young girl though more anguish by appealing the decision.

The housemates, who did not appear to show any sort of compassion, seek to justify their decision, again, through the media. This is not Celebrity Big Brother.

This is someone’s life. The sensationalist reporting needs to stop. Now.

We need to look at why women are being forced to act outside the law. We need to start with the basis that an archaic law from 1861, which seeks to criminalise women, is unfit for our society.

As I have said before, members of the Executive should hang their heads in shame at their continued failure to bring clarity to the issue of abortion.

Those standing for election would do well to listen and trust women.

Any candidate who cannot convince me that they trust women will not be trusted with my vote.

Clare Bailey, Deputy leader, Green Party in NI