According to a government news release, the government has proclaimed its Safe Access to Abortion Services Act, which came into force Feb. 1. and provides for “safety perimeters” around clinics performing the procedure.
“The [new legislation] prohibits protests, demonstrations or picketing within buffer zones to protect patients and providers against harassment and intimidation,” states the release.
The new law reportedly creates a buffer zone of at least 50 metres around clinics, but zones can be extended up to 150 metres if needed.
As for other facilities providing “surgical or medical abortion services” — hospitals, pharmacies and doctors’ offices, for example — they have the option of requesting buffer zones for their respective sites.
“Abortion is health care,” said Families Minister Nahanni Fontaine. “Manitobans have the right to safe and accessible health care. Whether you’re accessing reproductive care, recovering from a procedure, or providing critical health care to Manitobans, this new legislation will make sure your safety and privacy is protected.”
Fontaine has reportedly said in the past that some people entering abortion facilities have been intimidated, blocked or photographed by anti-abortion protestors.
The release notes Manitoba’s new law puts the province in line with B.C., Quebec, Ontario, Alberta, Nova Scotia and Newfoundland and Labrador – all of which have legislation providing for “abortion protest buffer zones.”
The legislation also protects doctors and pharmacists “who provide access to Mifegymiso, a non-surgical option for early abortion.”
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