ONE of Ireland's most influential Muslim leaders has backed the campaign for the repeal of the Eighth Amendment.
Shayk Dr Umar al-Qadri, Chairman of the Irish Muslim Peace and Integration Council (IMPIC), said he believed it was now clear that the Eighth Amendment should be repealed and that the rights of women in crisis pregnancies be recognised.
Dr al-Qadri confirmed that IMPIC will shortly be producing and releasing a special guide for Muslims on the impending referendum - its implications, its meaning and Islam's stance on the complex issue.
His position has been welcomed by 'Repeal the Eighth' campaigners and has been hailed as a significant boost for the referendum campaign.
Dr al-Qadri said it was important people understand the issues involved.
"Islam is neither exclusively pro-life nor pro-choice," he said.
"The rights of the umborn child have to be balanced with the rights of the mother." [Independent.ie] Read more
