As another day looms large on Macquarie Street, while the controversial 'abortion bill' is debated, the member for Cootamundra has remained tight-lipped on how she might cast her vote.
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Nationals MP Steph Cooke has joined Wagga's Independent member Joe McGirr in refusing to publicise how they will vote on The Reproductive Health Care Reform Bill 2019.
Update: Independent member for Wagga Dr Joe McGirr fronted the Legislative Assembly on Wednesday afternoon to detail his position on the Bill.
He has indicated that he will vote against introducing the Reproductive Health Care Reform Bill 2019.
It is understood Cootamundra MP Steph Cooke did not take the opportunity to speak in parliament on Wednesday.
Ms Cooke told The Junee Southern Cross on Monday: "I am carefully considering the Bill, consulting with medical professionals and taking note of the various views of my constituents in deciding my vote."
The Bill, if introduced, will decriminalise of abortions in NSW and allow women to seek a termination up to 22-weeks gestation.
After 22-weeks the assessment of two doctors will be required to seek a termination.
Junee Combined Churches Reverend Allan Jones also weighed into the debate this week, admitting "I do not envy the politicians making this decision".
"I come from Queensland where we've just had this same debate," he said.
"We're also talking about possible changes to euthanasia laws [in a separate Bill].
"So it looks like no matter where life is - beginning or end - we're talking about ending it. I do believe that life is precious and is to be lived until it expires.
"It's not for us to know how long it will last."
Temora's Presbyterian minister Derek Yu this week penned a letter to The Junee Southern Cross advocating for doctors to retain the power of conscientious objection, and for the implementation of better counselling services for those seeking a termination.
"I also write to challenge those who oppose abortion to consider how we can embrace unwanted children, and help mothers who might find it difficult raising children.
"We cannot just voice our opinion, but we who oppose abortion must do what we can to love those who are in need," Minister Yu wrote.
Emma Horn
Supervising producer of the national video team. Former features and weekender writer for The Daily Advertiser. Now based in the NSW Hunter region. Small, quiet, and a student of the Julie Bishop School Of Staring. Usually dressed in something colourful, always snacking on something homemade. Friend to most mothers and all dogs. Got stories? Get in touch. emma.horn@austcommunitymedia.com.au
Supervising producer of the national video team. Former features and weekender writer for The Daily Advertiser. Now based in the NSW Hunter region. Small, quiet, and a student of the Julie Bishop School Of Staring. Usually dressed in something colourful, always snacking on something homemade. Friend to most mothers and all dogs. Got stories? Get in touch. emma.horn@austcommunitymedia.com.au
