Gozo Bishop Mario Grech’s “categorical” statement against abortion even to save women’s lives has angered the Malta Confederation of Women’s Organisations.

The MCWO expressed “strong concern” regarding Mgr Grech’s statement that abortion to save a mother’s life was “never acceptable” even though medication that indirectly put unborn children at risk could be ethic-ally justified.

“We believe that the life of the mother is at the very least as valuable as the life of the unborn child, but such statements suggest otherwise,” the confederation said in a press statement.

“One should keep in mind that under such tragic circumstances the persons involved, especially the mother, needs our full and unconditional support.

Such categorical statements can only bring added pressure and problems to those concerned.”

The MCWO said more emphasis should have been made on the fact that life-saving medical care to the mother was ethically acceptable, even if it indirectly harmed the foetus.

“This gives a more humane face to the Church and our society,” the MCWO said.