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Content Warning: This episode includes mentions of the sexual assault of a minor. We don't go into detail, but it may be distressing for some listeners, and listener discretion is advised.

On this episode of How The Yes Was Won, we cover The X Case, the first real challenge to the 8th Amendment. We cover how this case led to widespread public demonstrations, and culminated in the public voting in 3 additional referenda on the same day to increase access to abortion, and information on abortion services overseas. We also cover how in 2002, conservative politicians attempted to rollback on these referenda, despite the fact that none of it had been made practicable by legislation. Links to additional resources are below.

We spoke with Dr Ursula Barry, Mary Ryder, and Niall Behan for this episode.

If you would like to help increase access to abortion in Ireland and elsewhere, please consider donating to the Abortion Support Network.


Donate to Abortion Support Network


RTÉ report from the X case protest march 


Written and edited by Deirdre Kelly and Aisling Dolan. Narrated by Aisling Dolan. Produced by Deirdre Kelly, Aisling Dolan, Emma Callaghan, Tara Lonij, Davy Quinlivan




Logo: designed by Fintan Wall,  featuring Maser's Repeal heart  


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