USI slams abortion info website for peddling lies

national | miscellaneous | press release Thursday February 03, 2005 11:46 by USI watch

The Union of Students in Ireland have condemned the use of scare tactics by LIFE organisation.

2nd February 2005

The Union of Students in Ireland (USI) has condemned the use of scare tactics by a group claiming to offer guidance on the risks involved with abortion. Information contained on the Life website (www.life.ie) ranges from gross exaggeration to outright lies. USI feels it is necessary to draw attention to the website in order to highlight the way in which women who are already in a difficult situation are further confused by such misleading information.

USI Welfare Officer, Layne Aston said: “As an organisation USI is fully committed to providing a pro-information policy in relation crisis pregnancy. It is vital that women are provided with all the necessary facts in order for them to make informed decisions during what can often be a very difficult time.

“There is little regard for facts throughout the Life website, with statistics thrown around with no indication of where they came from or even what they relate to. The website states that complications leading to death occur in “less than 20 cases per year.” This headline grabbing statement is not supported by any other details as to where this came from or whether it relates to Ireland, Europe or the world.

“I have been contacted by both students’ union welfare offices as well as individuals concerned at such information claiming to be fact. Among the many inaccuracies contained on the site is the claim of a link between abortion and breast cancer. This claim is indicative of the style in which much of the information is presented. The studies I have seen and even advice given by professionals in the area all refute such a claim.

“One of the most galling aspects of this organisation is that they claim: “We do not offer, recommend or refer for abortions or abortifacients, but we are committed to offering accurate information about abortion procedures and risks.

“It is wrong for an organisation to give such a one-sided view of any medical procedure. Either provide all the information or none at all, all these actions serve to do is introduce further confusion for women who are seeking the facts before making what in many cases is one of the most important decisions of their lives.

"USI would advise women who find themselves in a situation of crisis pregnancy to consult agencies that provide complete information in the area."

Useful websites
www.plannedparenthood.org
www.ifpa.ie
www.rcog.org.uk

For further information/comment, please contact:
USI Welfare Officer, Layne Aston 086 8195492
USI Development Manager, Ryan Brennan 01 4353400