The Maltese government announced on Thursday June 30 a review of the application of the ban on abortion in the country, after a controversy over a pregnant American tourist who was refused an abortion while her baby was condemned.
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“
I have asked our teams to look at whether any parts of our legislation prevent our doctors from providing care where it is needed
,” Maltese Health Minister Chris Fearne told reporters.
It is the first comment from the Maltese government since the controversy linked to the case of Andrea Prudente, 38, who was refused an abortion last week after suffering a partial miscarriage while on holiday on the Mediterranean island. .
Far from being an isolated case
The fetus had no chance of survival but despite the risk of fatal infection for the mother, doctors had refused to intervene due to the draconian law in this predominantly Catholic country, the only one in the European Union completely banning abortion.
The couple were eventually flown to Spain, where Andrea Prudente was taken care of.
But the case sparked strong protests and brought international attention to the country's legislation.
“
Maltese law should in no way prevent our doctors and professionals from saving lives
,” said Chris Fearne, himself a former surgeon.
Doctors performing abortions can face up to four years in prison and a life ban from practicing medicine.
“
I have the assurance from the State Solicitor (the most senior legal official in Malta) that in such cases no action is taken against medical professionals who administer treatment and do their utmost possible to save lives
,” said Chris Fearne.
"
This is not an isolated case (...) It has happened before and will happen again
," he added.
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Chris Fearne, however, did not mention a possible change in the law of the country, where the subject is rarely addressed by the political class.
On Monday, more than 130 Maltese doctors filed a legal challenge against the abortion ban, saying it prevented doctors from providing "
immediate and timely care
".
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