Bishop Kevin Doran of Achonry and Elphin has issued a stark warning that Ireland’s rising abortion rates are emptying classrooms and threatening rural communities. In a February 8, 2026, statement, he highlighted official figures showing 10,852 abortions in 2024—equivalent to 300 primary school classrooms lost in a single year.
“Quite apart from the enormous human tragedy involved, this is the equivalent of 300 classes of primary school children,” Doran stated, emphasizing the long-term societal impact. He noted that since the 2018 referendum legalizing abortion, approximately 60,000 unborn lives have been lost, contributing to declining school enrolments and closures.Doran argued that abortion not only deprives families of children but also diminishes community vitality: “Thousands of happy, laughing children are missing from our schools and playgrounds.”
He predicted a “dramatic reduction of young adults in every aspect of community life” if trends continue, underscoring the need to protect life from conception. Pro-life advocates echoed these concerns. Eilís Mulroy of the Pro Life Campaign pointed out that one in six junior infants is missing due to abortion, affecting school registrations nationwide. Bernie Smyth of Precious Life warned of a “demographic winter,” with fewer births straining society alongside longer lifespans for the elderly.
Both criticized media hostility toward pro-life voices, arguing it silences discussions on abortion’s consequences. This surge in terminations highlights the urgent need for policies prioritizing family support and life’s sanctity to reverse Ireland’s population decline.