GARDAÍ have launched an investigation after a girl aged just 12 travelled to Britain to terminate a pregnancy.
According to the Irish Times, investigators have requested DNA from the aborted foetus to confirm the father was a 15-year-old boy – and to rule out the possibility it was the result of sexual abuse by an adult.
In Ireland, where the age of consent is 17, a person found guilty of having sex with a 12-year-old can be sentenced to life in prison.
In the case of the 12-year-old girl, the Irish authorities were notified within the last year by a UK clinic concerned because of her age.
Tusla, the Irish child and family agency, has also launched a probe.
The agency said it does not comment on individual cases to ensure the privacy and protection of the children and families involved.
However, it added: "In cases where a referral is received relating to an underage pregnancy, Tusla's role is to assess and intervene where there are any concerns about the child's safety and welfare, including whether the pregnancy is a result of child abuse.
"If it is suspected or alleged that the child has been abused, Tusla takes immediate protective action to keep the child safe and notifies An Garda Siochana of the suspected abuse."
Gardaí declined to comment.
The Irish public have just over two months until they can decide the future of the country's abortion laws in the upcoming referendum on the Eighth Amendment.
The vote on repealing the legislation – which recognises the 'equal right to life' of the mother and the unborn child – is expected to happen on May 25.
