“When you make abortion against the law, it does not stop or decrease abortion,” Clarke said in a recent interview. She added that the ban makes it “inconvenient for women and couples that have financial resources and it makes the situation desperate for women and couples who don’t.

“Irish abortion exists. It just doesn’t take place in Ireland.”

“Independent counselling would “only add to the numerous obstacles” facing Irish women, since many of them already have to meet the costs of the abortion, travel and childcare while they are away” ~ Mara Clarke