The Catholic Church in Spain has launched a campaign to defend the rights of the unborn child.It has produced a poster that states that the lynx, one of the world’s endangered species, has more protection under the law in Spain than the foetus.
Now this has caused ridicule and anger amongst those who support the extension of the abortion laws in Spain. It has also infuriated ecologists.
In the latter case I share their ire. There is a big enough battle as it is to defend our endangered species and flora without the issue being clouded in this way. I also remember full well that one of the reasons cruelty against animals is so prevalent is that the Catholic Church of old in Spain preached that the lynx and other creatures were not important –because they had no souls.
I am also willing to accept that a woman has a right to an abortion if her life is endangered, because of a medical condition or she has been raped.
But, and oh yes there’s always a but here, I do not accept that because a couple copulated and the girl ended up pregnant or whatever other circumstances prevailed she has the right to end a life just to benefit hers.
I differ from the Catholic Church over contraception plus many of its attitudes to sex but by and large I accept its argument on abortion.
It is estimated that 120,000 foetuses – babies – people like you and me - are aborted in Spain each year. Now the Spanish Government wants to allow girls aged 16 to have an abortion without having to tell her parents.
I am all for human rights. I am all for the rights of women. I support the protection of our flora and fauna. However, isn’t it time we offered protection to the foetuses – the unborn children – because if we don’t speak for them – who will?
