The Green Party has welcomed a Supreme Court judgment reinforcing the validity of Safe Access Zones legislation, declaring that the ruling confirms the law is working exactly as intended.

The legislation was established to ensure that individuals accessing abortion services, alongside the medical staff providing them, can enter healthcare facilities safely, privately, and without facing harassment, intimidation, or attempts to influence their medical decisions.

Party representatives addressed previous criticisms of the regulations, stating that claims labelling the law as an attack on religious freedom were incorrect. While the right to hold and express religious beliefs is fully protected, the party emphasised that those rights do not permit the targeting of individuals attempting to access healthcare services. The Supreme Court's decision confirms that the current statute strikes an appropriate balance and that the established buffer zones are entirely lawful and proportionate. The Green Party noted that the legal proceedings appeared to be a deliberate challenge to the legislation, pointing out that the defendant admitted to intentionally choosing the location despite being aware of the legal risks. The courts have upheld the original intent of the law, signalling that these protections cannot be undermined.

Commenting on the judgment, Councillor Shannon Groogan said: "Buffer zones were introduced to protect women and pregnant people from harassment and intimidation while accessing healthcare. Everyone has a right to access healthcare, and the Supreme Court has clearly said this law strikes the right balance by protecting that right without compromising any other rights.

"We are pleased that the law ensuring people can access healthcare safely and free from targeted interference is being enforced. The law is working as intended, and today the courts have upheld that position."

The Green Party stated it remains committed to defending safe access zones, reproductive rights, and the right of patients and staff to access healthcare environments without fear, pressure, or harassment.