On February 1st, the “Safe Access to Abortion Services Act” came into effect in Ontario. The act establishes “safe access zones” surrounding abortion clinics, to protect the safety of those seeking services as well as their health care providers.
The “safe access zones” occupy a 50-metre radius around Ontario’s abortion clinics, of which there are eight. According to the news release made by the Ministry of the Attorney General, it is illegal to: stage abortion related protests within the safe zones; advise against using abortion services; and intimidate, interfere physically with, or record those using or providing these services.
The act defines “abortion services” as “lawful services provided for the termination of pregnancy including prescribing, dispensing, or administering a drug to terminate pregnancy.”
Other healthcare facilities that provide abortion services, including but not limited to hospitals and pharmacies, are able to apply for safe access zones of 150 metres, and all abortion services providers have 150 metre zones around their homes.
Penalties for the violation of this act may include six months imprisonment and/or fines up to $5000, or more if the offence occurs multiple times.
The “Safe Access to Abortion Services Act” was announced in October 2017 by Attorney General Yasir Naqvi. While widely supported, the act continues to be met with protest. In the release made February 1st, Naqvi says: “No one should ever be intimidated or have to fear for their safety while accessing abortion services. These changes will have a far-reaching impact on patients, providers, and communities across the province⸻helping to ensure these spaces are safer and more secure for everyone.”
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