The abortion drug Mifepristone 'blocks the hormone that makes the lining of the womb suitable for the fertilised egg' according to the NHS website

A Belfast woman is to stand trial accused of supplying poison for her daughter to have a miscarriage.

The defendant, aged in her thirties, appeared before the city's Magistrates' Court today to face two charges of unlawfully procuring a medical abortion medicine known for its use in terminating pregnancies.

She cannot be named to ensure her daughter's identity is not revealed.

The alleged offences were said to have occurred at a location in Belfast on dates in 2013.

The woman is accused of procuring a poison or other noxious substance, namely Mifepristone and Misoprostol, knowing that it was to be used with the intention of securing a miscarriage.

During preliminary enquiry proceedings she spoke to confirm she understood the charges.

A prosecution lawyer said the case involved the alleged injured party's mother.

She also submitted that a prima facie case to answer has been established.

Defence counsel Sean Devine told the court he was making no contrary submissions.

He added that an amended prosecution application to have medical records admitted had been agreed.

Deputy District Judge Una Mullan confirmed the defendant was being returned for trial at Belfast Crown Court.

The accused was released on continuing bail until those proceedings get underway on a date to be fixed.

Belfast Telegraph