Pride was the central emotion that flooded the Millennium Theatre on Saturday, October 11 as Limerick Family Planning Clinic commemorated 50 years of service.
The event, hosted in Technological University of the Shannon (TUS) consisted of a documentary on the clinic’s journey through the decades, proceeded by a song circle of local musicians. Academy Award nominee Ruth Negga provided the voiceover narration of the short film, even refusing payment for her work.
The event was organised by Clinic Medical Director, Sarah Anne Bennett. Family, friends, and devoted staff members spanning generations flocked to support the cause- making for a full house.
Breaking down Conservative Barriers
“In 1979, some women opted to have their coil removed when the Pope visited Limerick” – Cam O’Donoghue, Executive Board Member
The pioneers of the Limerick Family Planning Clinic fought through the repressive society of Ireland in the 1970’s. Contraception was illegal to purchase, and women had little autonomy over their own bodies. Things needed to change. Fast.
Limerick Women’s Group member Ferga Grant took matters into her own hands. Along with two other brave ladies Cathie Chappell and Jan Toch, these heroines changed the trajectory of female reproductive health in Limerick.
Reflecting on the campaigning it took to open the doors of the clinic in February 1976, Ferga states in the documentary “it is a democratic right for every woman to have control over their fertility.”
Volunteers, with the political pull of Labour TD Jim Kemmy, succeeded in their goal. Limerick Family Planning was open for business on Cornmarket Row. Condoms were now available, but not to be taken for granted. Each night the staff would stuff their handbags with the latex supplies for fear the Gardaí would raid and confiscate such ‘sacreligious contraband’.
“You must be crazy to work there, this is Limerick. But I felt radical”- Dr. Paul O’Sullivan on the scrutiny he faced in the clinic’s early days.
Acceptance in Society through the 1980’s and 90’s
As the years progressed, so did the people’s mindset. The public began to realise it was not just a contraceptive clinic. Vital health screenings like smear tests, breast examinations, and advice on menopause was provided.
With the introduction of male vasectomy services in the 80’s, the clinic was a trusted medical practice by both men and women. Funding grew and the team moved to Mallow Street, where they still are today.
Financial Difficulties Emerging
Being a nonprofit organisation, money was kept to a strict budget. In 2005 the Health Service Executive awarded a grant of nearly €130,000.
However, as medical card patients increase, the profits go down. Other factors such as the broad availability of the morning after pill in pharmacies, meant women weren’t relying on the clinic as much.
By 2012, Limerick Family Planning Clinic was in severe financial difficulty. Redundancies were made and staff took voluntary pay cuts. This harsh reality showcases the passion the clinic’s staff has for providing world class care to its patients. It was this resilience that kept the clinic open, and still running to this day.
Current Day Conditions
Fast forwarding to 2025, the practice on 27 Mallow Street is a respected institution that faces zero scrutiny from the public.
When asked if staff feel judged for working here, the resounding answer is a definitive no. “I’m proud of what we do here. People come in at their wits end and we give them options. It’s a pleasure to be here” said nurse Mags McHugh.
“We’re here to support, not judge” – reassured nurse Angela McMahon.
From girls coming in for their first pill, to women entering menopause the age demographic is broad. Counselling services at all stages of pregnancy are available also.
Dr. Sarah Anne Bennett praised her compassionate team in the documentary – “walking in here is like getting a warm hug.”
The Big Night
The welcoming reception in TUS set the tone for the evening as the community gathered to share stories and reunite with former colleagues.
The documentary, produced by Tammy Bennett in association with Red Box Media, was an ode to the non wavering commitment of its workers since 1976.
A harmonious blend of humour and nostalgia, the 40-minute film captured the camaraderie of the clinic beautifully.
A former patient Anne Marie Ryan featured in the closing scene as she emotionally thanked the clinic. From the smear test she received on Mallow Street, she caught her stage one cancer diagnosis early. She has since made a full recovery, gleefully proclaiming “I’m still here 13 years later!”
After the interval, a musical performance was held on stage. Musicians included Damien Drea, Philomena O’Brien, Eve Stafford, Dr. Sarah Anne Bennett, Edwina Van Kuyk, and Jane Fraser. The encapsulated audience enjoyed renditions of Lady Gaga, The Greatest Showman, and original songs.
What does the future hold?
With Ireland’s progressive attitude to sexual and reproductive health, the future looks promising for the Limerick Family Planning Clinic. Free contraception is available for women aged 17-35 since 2022 and abortion was legalised in 2018. The fight for choice was won.
In terms of the practice, the staff would love some refurbishment. There is a desire for more waiting space, privacy, and a separate room to execute administration.
Clinical Director Sarah Anne Bennett is optimistic for the years to come “Limerick is a resilient city. The clinic has absorbed that energy. I hope we’re in a bigger, brighter building in the next 50 years.”