MOVES to reform abortion laws are being opposed by a group of Christians in Millicent.
The group is promoting a prayer vigil at 3pm on March 17 at the Rotunda in the Millicent Parklands.
Promotional pamphlets about the prayer vigil are circulating around Millicent but no contact details for the group are provided.
The rally is thought to be a response to moves by Greens MLC Tammy Franks to reform abortion laws.
Meanwhile, the independent South Australian Law Reform Institute (SALRI) based at the University of Adelaide has been requested by the South Australian Attorney-General Vicki Chapman to examine changes to the State’s abortion laws.
“The South Australian Law Reform Institute welcomes the opportunity to undertake this most important reference, with a view to making abortion a regulated medical procedure under health law as opposed to a criminal law issue,” Professor John Williams said.
“The State’s existing abortion laws, which have not been updated for four decades, will be examined with a view to improving access and modernising the practice in SA.
“Abortion raises many sensitive and complex ethical, social, legal and medical issues.
“There are sincere and differing views in the community which we will consider when making our report.
“The South Australian Law Reform Institute will research and consult widely with the community, health providers and interested parties, especially those in regional South Australia, on present law and practice and the implications of any changes.
“On the basis of its research and consultation, the Institute will suggest potential models for reform.”
Ms Chapman said there had been significant advancements in medical technology and a significant shift in community attitudes since the current abortion laws were introduced over four decades ago.
“While I thank Tammy Franks MLC for her advocacy on this issue, it is my opinion the Private Members Bill that is currently before the house is too broad and fails to adequately regulate these medical procedures, which is critical to get right from the outset,” Ms Chapman said.
“As with any Bill of this nature, there will be no formal State Government position and will ultimately be a conscience vote for members of the State Government.
“Instead of supporting this ultimately flawed Bill, I am of the view that a referral to the Law Reform Institute is the most appropriate way to determine how South Australian laws could best be updated and brought in line with those in other jurisdictions, particularly regional access and investigating the current outdated criminal law.”
