N.B. ministers support anti-abortion movement at rally

Three New Brunswick ministers attended an anti-abortion rally at the legislature on Thursday, revealing possible dissonance on the issue within the Liberal cabinet.

The rally was organized in response to a court challenge against the province's restrictive abortion practices. Women may only access a medicare-funded abortion if two doctors consent. The government refuses to fund abortions at a private clinic in Fredericton.

Well-known abortion-right crusader Henry Morgentaler is arguing the legislation in place is in violation of the Canada Health Act.

Some at the rally called for a complete ban on abortion.

Post-Secondary Education Minister Ed Doherty, Public Safety Minister John Foran and Minister of Tourism and Parks Stuart Jamieson were on hand at the rally.

Jamieson said abortion services covered by medicare are the bare minimum the province must provide by law.

"I wouldn't support the government if they changed that," said the Saint John-Fundy MLA. "I'm against abortions on demand."

Foran walked awaywhen reportersasked if he disagrees with a provincial policy allowing some abortions, refusing to tell reporters if his support for the protesters was consistent with the government's policy on abortion.

"It's my personal view," Foran said when asked to explain his presence.

Asked whether his personal view is the same as his view as a member of the government, he said: "It's my personal view is to support the rally."