A bill to bring in 100 metre exclusion zones around healthcare is being discussed by the Oireachtas Health Committee.
The Presbyterian Church says proposed Safe Access Zones around healthcare settings are 'unwise'.
Abortion rights groups have campaigned for bans on demonstrations in areas around health care facilities that provide abortion and maternity services.
The Presbyterian Church has made a submission to the Oireachtas health committee, saying the bill to bring in 100 metre exclusion zones will block people's 'sincere desire to help women and their families in crisis'.
Rev William Hayes, from Tullamore Presbyterian Church, says the safe access zones could also lead to some unintended consequences for freedom of speech:
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