Thousands of pro-life protestors have marched through Dublin City to protest existing abortion legislation. 

After attending a mass service, Rally for Life marched from Dominic Street to Custom House Quay, calling for the Government to take measures to reduce the number of abortions in Ireland. 

According to recent Government figures, 8,500 people had an abortion in Ireland in 2022. 

Protestors at the rally told Newstalk they wished to “protect the right to life”.  

“Although it is a choice, we believe that God's decided to put the baby in every mother's womb, and it's like they'll be there for a purpose,” one protestor said.  

A Rally for Life banner calling for 'No Abortions' on Dominic Street. Image via Matthew Joyce for Newstalk.

Another protestor speaking from Custom House Quay praised the US Supreme Court’s 2022 decision to overturn the right to abortion nationwide.  

“The tide is turning. Roe vs. Wade has been overturned,” he said. “Come on Ireland – it's our turn.” 

“We stand for life because no vote, no law and no referendum can ever give the right to kill a child,” another protestor said. 

Rally for Life campaigner Niamh Uí Bhriain told The Anton Savage Show earlier today campaigners want to know what the Government will do to reduce the “spiralling” abortion rates. 

“Where's the accountability for this from a Government that said abortion was going to be rare?” she said. 

“Can we really say we're offering a choice to women if so many women feel that abortion perhaps is the only thing that's available for them?” 

Rally for Life protestors at Custom House Quay. Image via Matthew Joyce for Newstalk.

Ms Uí Bhriain also criticised Government plans to introduce ‘Safe Access Zones’ within 100 metres of hospitals and maternity clinics to prevent protests.  

“The entire piece of legislation seems to me like a punching down at pro-life people by the Government who feel that they have a political advantage here,” she said. 

“It would make it illegal for somebody to stand without any posters, without saying a word, praying silently in their head.” 

According to the legislation, anyone repeatedly protesting outside medical centres that provide abortions could face a €2,500 fine or six months in prison. 

People will be allowed to protest outside the buffer zone and the penalties will only kick in after gardaí have given an initial warning. 

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