Abortion figures won't be released

Thu, 14 Sep 2017

The Department of Health and Social Care says it won't release figures relating to the number of abortions carried out annually on the Isle of Man.

The figures were sought in a Freedom of Information request for each year since the Termination of Pregnancy Act 1995 came into force.

However, the Department believes the small number may make it possible for individuals to be identified, as it has been consistently fewer than 10 per year.

Ramsey MHK Alex Allinson is currently seeking to update the Island's abortion laws, with public feedback being sought on the proposals.

Women must meet strict criteria to have an abortion on the Isle of Man under currently laws, such as facing serious health risks or being the victim of rape.