Minister of Health and Chair of the Joint Select Committee of the Houses of Parliament set up to consider the Final Report of the Ministry of Health, Jamaica Abortion Policy Review Advisory Group, was in Morant Bay St. Thomas last night (Thursday, January 27, 2010) leading the third public consultation forum on the issue. The event was held at Morant Villas in the parish. The Panel put forward views on all sides of the issue and allowed for members of the public in attendance to express their ideas and concerns as they relate to the recommendations of the Advisory Group.

Minister Spencer said he welcomed the robust discussion as issues raised will form part of deliberations of the Committee as it seeks to put forward recommendations to parliament. “I am happy to see that persons are playing their part in ensuring that all issues are considered as we attempt to chart a way forward. This issue of abortion has been on the table since 1974 and we would like to make some headway towards bringing it to some kind of conclusion as it is an issue that has to be dealt with,” he said.

The final forum is scheduled for Wednesday, February 3, 2010 at the Glenmuir High School, in May Pen, Clarendon.

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Contact: MOH, Public Relations Unit Tel: 967-1561