One in six pregnancies in Ireland now ends in abortion, according to figures released by the Department of Health showing a record 10,852 abortions in 2024. The real figure is likely to be several hundred higher because full hospital data are not yet available. The number of abortions has climbed by 65% since 2019, which was the first full year of the current law’s operation following repeal of the 8th Amendment in 2018.
Eilís Mulroy of the Pro Life Campaign (PLC) described the numbers as “truly shocking,” adding that the lack of transparency is deeply concerning. The Department simply published the report on its website without drawing any attention to it. “We only found the numbers because we kept checking. They weren’t listed under news. You had to know what you were looking for,” she told The Irish Catholic. “It seems even the Department of Health recognises something is very wrong.”
She criticised the Government for refusing to engage with pro-life voices and for failing to offer meaningful alternatives. “It’s been a one-way street. The MyOptions helpline [a crisis pregnancy website] focuses almost entirely on abortion provision. Counsellors aren’t even trained to discuss welfare or housing supports.”
The PLC is also calling for a meeting with new Minister for Health Jennifer Carroll MacNeill. “We’re hopeful she’ll listen,” said Ms Mulroy. “Abortion ends lives — it’s too important to ignore.” She added that the PLC has also been actively engaging with several newly elected ministers and TDs to raise awareness and encourage a more balanced policy approach. “Many simply haven’t heard this side of the issue yet.”
Sandra Parda of The Life Institute also condemned the rise in abortions. “The new statistic is deeply disturbing and should horrify anyone,” she said. “The politicians promised abortion would be safe and rare, but now we see how untrue that was. 10,852 abortions in one year isn’t rare — nor is it safe, where it ends a human life and often harms the mother.”
Ms Mulroy added: “The public isn’t being told the truth. You’re the first journalist who’s phoned me about this — that says it all.”
