02/09/2026
I made a proposal to stop this……fell on deaf ears, this is not something to celebrate and light up City Hall in our opinion
Belfast City Council has agreed to illuminate City Hall to mark ‘International Safe Abortion Day’ on the 28th September, after a DUP proposal not to proceed with illumination was defeated by 36 votes to 18.
DUP Party Group Leader, Cllr Sarah Bunting said:
“City Hall belongs to everyone. It should not be used as a billboard for one side of a profound and continuing moral and political debate.
International Safe Abortion Day is not simply a neutral health-awareness event, but is associated with an international campaigning agenda seeking the further liberalisation of abortion laws.
The DUP is a pro-life party and we believe compassion for women does not require us to disregard the unborn child. Women facing difficult circumstances deserve care, practical support and compassion, while unborn children also have inherent value.
People across Belfast hold deeply divided but sincerely held views on abortion. We therefore proposed that this illumination should not proceed, but regrettably that position was defeated by 36 votes to 18.”
