Ireland Plans To Offer Abortions For Free, As Ban Is Officially Repealed

Ireland officially revoked its ban on abortion this week – and its health minister says that under a new law, women won't have to pay for abortion services in the country. The goal is to ensure access and make sure women aren't forced to travel for the procedure, Health Minister Simon Harris says.

Irish President Michael D. Higgins signed the abortion referendum bill into law on Tuesday, striking the Eighth Amendment from the books.

It was "an extraordinarily historic day," Harris said of the repeal, which follows up ona public referendum in May, when an overwhelming majority of voters said more women in Ireland should have access to clinics that perform abortions.

"Yes, it is my intention that the services will be free," Harris said in response to a reporter's question about how Ireland will handle medical expenses for abortions.

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