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Protection of Life During Pregnancy offers no new rights

Almost immediately after the Protection of Life During Pregnancy came into effect, both the Irish College of General Practitioners and the College of Psychiatrists expressed concern regarding their members carrying out abortions under the terms of the bill, with the College of Psychiatrists going further to suggest to its members not take part in the review panels where the sincerity of pregnant women expressing suicidal thoughts are judged by panel consisting of an obstetrician and two psychiatrists.
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European Elections: Get active in campaign to elect Paul Murphy MEP

These elections come at an important time. Every time we turn on the TV or read the papers we will see the government and many of their friends in the right wing press trumpeting a “recovery” in the economy. However, where is the recovery for working people who are suffering under viscous neo-liberal austerity policies? Emigration is at record levels, our public services are at breaking point, despite the smoke and mirrors from the Labour Party social welfare is being slashed, there is a housing crisis with soaring rents and house prices, unemployment is high and the only jobs available are low paid with yellow pack conditions.
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After Haddington Road – Should a new teachers union be set up?

Following the ballot on Haddington Road by ASTI members, a meeting is being called to consider setting up a new secondary teachers union. The meeting is called by some members of ASTI Fightback, (an activist group within the ASTI), in reaction to anger and frustration felt at the imposition of a third ballot and the ongoing machinations of the union leadership.
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Haass talks failure – Sectarian politicians cannot find way forward

The scene seemed set for yet another 'landmark' deal in the history of the peace process. The negotiations continued into the early hours of New Year's Eve. Yet – despite six months of work and 33 days of negotiations and much fanfare – the talks process led by US diplomat Richard Haass failed to reach agreement between the five Assembly Executive parties on how to deal with parades, the past, flags and emblems, with only the nationalist parties endorsing the final draft proposals.