A demonstrator displays leaflets featuring photographs of foetuses during an anti-abortion protest in Madrid, Spain last month. - AP

Remember greater law

To kill is wrong. We currently have legislation against such acts. By definition, to kill is to take the life of a living being. Where am I going with this? A baby, or should I say 'foetus' as the learned may call it, is a living being.

Therefore, to take a life which exists outside as well as inside the womb is wrong. In light of this, the law against killing should hold true to abortion as well.

If our 'local law' is not enough, remember the 'greater law': Thou shalt not kill. (Exodus 20:13).

I am, etc.,

Theo-Aundre Forester

Isn't Jamaica a democracy?

A woman's right to choose, isn't that a part of the democratic process? Last time I checked, Jamaica was a democracy.

I am, etc.,

dantay@earthlink.net

Put systems in place for adoption

Make abortions legal, but only in the first trimester for elective and up to end of pregnancy in the case of medical issues like a threat to the mother's life or a foetus which shows indications of developing severe mental or physical disabilities.

Put in place a system, similar to that in the United States, where unwanted babies can be left at fire stations for adoption or placement in orphanages or foster care, no questions asked.

I am, etc.,

macsol@mac.com

Church should refrain from decision

I believe that abortion should be left up to the parents-to-be. It's their choice whether they are ready or able to care for a child. I believe that the Church should refrain from deciding whether abortion is wrong or right. I am sure the Church is not doing a good enough job in caring for the unwanted children who are on the streets.

I am etc.,

Nalion Anderson

Grateful I was not a victim

Many people focus today on views of various sects in society to position, their stance on abortion.

Some will defend the Church's position, while others will conform to the more liberal opinions that it's a matter of personal choice.

When I reflect on the issue, I am overwhelmed with such gratitude that I was not a victim of abortion.

I am grateful that my parents allowed me to enjoy a privilege that some people are now debating as a matter of choice, life.

No matter what the circumstances are surrounding the conception, a greater concern should be for that which is to come, a child with endless possibilities.

I am, etc.,

AAD

Legalise within first 12 days

The abortion should be done before organs, limbs, heartbeat, etc., start to develop. If I am correct, that gives about two weeks from conception, so abortion within the first 12 days from conception could be made legal.

The only exception should be in a case where both mother and baby would die. Evidence of such a situation must be properly documented, and the procedure approved by at least, two authoritative figures. Anything outside of this should be deemed illegal, and an act of murder or, at least, manslaughter.

I am, etc.,

Jason Bynoe

Join the abortion debate!

The Government is examining possible amendments to the laws relating to abortion in Jamaica. Should abortion be legal? Join the debate. Email us: editor@gleaner jm.com or fax: 922-6223.