Activists Call For Huge Strike That Could Affect The Whole Country

Various pro-choice groups have come together to call for an all-out national strike action if the Government fails to announce a a referendum to repeal the Eighth Amendment by March 8.

Strike 4 Repeal have outlined reasons for the strike on their Facebook event page:

"This strike is based on non-traditional strike actions for human rights that we have witnessed in other parts of the world. In October of last year, thousands of people in more than 60 cities in Poland went on strike to protect their access to abortion, and won."

The group, which is being supported by the likes of Abortion Rights Campaign, the Anti-Racism Network and Sex Workers Alliance Ireland, also outlined numerous ways in which people can take part.

"If you can strike, do. There will be people in your area also participating and we can put you in touch. If it’s possible, book a day off work in advance.

If you are less affected by the lack of abortion provision in this country, show your solidarity by offering to cover colleagues’ hours on the 8th of March.

Wear all black or a black armband on the day to signify your support.

Stage an event at 12 noon or on your lunch break to remember the 12 women who have been forced to travel for abortion that day, and every day.

If you are a business owner, consider giving a day off to your employees or completely closing the business on that day.

Withdraw your domestic labour on the day. Consider all the work that you’d typically do on that day, and how withdrawing from it might highlight the contribution that you and millions make every day to a country where we do not have access to basic healthcare.

We encourage everyone to come up with their own ideas for participation on the day."