Nova Scotia Liberals should pass NDP bubble zone law

Halifax -- Yesterday, the NDP introduced legislation to prohibit protests or other interference with access to reproductive health services whether at a pharmacy, a clinic, a doctor’s office, a hospital, or a physician’s home, often referred to as a bubble zone.

“I know in my heart this needs to happen. This protection needs to be in place,” said Megan Boudreau who has been collecting signatures on a petition to create bubble zone laws in Nova Scotia. “I’m advocating for bubble zones to protect those seeking abortion from further harm and trauma. Abortion is healthcare and healthcare should be harassment-free.”

Following anti-choice demonstrations near the Women’s Choice Clinic at the Victoria General Hospital, Boudreau felt it was time to protect those seeking reproductive health care. Bubble zones exist in other jurisdictions including British Columbia, Alberta, Ontario, Quebec and Newfoundland and Labrador.

“No one should have to face harassment or intimidation to access the health care services they need. Establishing bubble zones would help protect the safety and wellbeing of patients,” said NDP Status of Women spokesperson Claudia Chender. “People have a right to access health care free from harassment.”

Today in the legislature, Chender will table Boudreau’s petition in support of creating bubble zone laws in Nova Scotia.

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