NDP MP Niki Ashton challenged Public Works and Status of Women Minister Rona Ambrose in Question Period, noting the 25th anniversary of the Morgentaler decision that struck down Canada’s abortion laws.

“For 25 years women in Canada have had the fundamental right to choose,” Ashton said. “In the years since, Canadians have said time and time again that they do not want the abortion debate reopened. Our question is, why does the Minister for Status of Women want that debate to happen in this House?”

“Mr. Speaker, let me be clear. Stealing a quote from someone I admire very much, Hillary Clinton, I believe abortion should be safe, legal and rare,” said Ambrose. “I would encourage the member to work with me on the status of women committee on issues that women want to debate. This is an issue that women are not interested in debating.”

Ambrose has been under fire since she voted for MP Stephen Woodworth’s Motion- 312 which called for Parliament to study the definition of a human being found in the Criminal Code. And Ambrose is on record opposing sex-selection pregnancy termination that targets unborn girls. A private member’s motion by MP Mark Warawa calls for Parliament to condemn the practice.

NDP MP Francois Boivin further challenged Ambrose. “Mr. Speaker, that is a bit rich when it comes from a government that keeps re-attacking, reopening, putting in doubt the whole question of abortion.”

Justice Minister Rob Nicholson responded: “The Prime Minister has been very clear on this that the government will not reopen this issue. The government will continue to create jobs and stand up for victims’ rights and make sure our communities and streets are safe.”

While the Harper government has repeatedly stated it will not re-open the abortion debate, it has respected the tradition of private member’s legislation and allowed a free vote.