Lorraine Clifford-Lee (Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I appreciate that some of my questions have already been covered. I thank Dr. Conlon for clarifying the rigorous extent of the peer review and examination of the research. I know all three witnesses are very experienced in this area and I appreciate the clarification.

On the three-day wait, I thank the witnesses for outlining what they believe would be a positive impact on women if the waiting period was removed. I also note the statutory right of reflection. Initially, when I saw this report, I was a little taken aback that it contained this aspect. I appreciate that the position that it is perhaps patronising has been put forward but I understand a balance had to be struck and agree that it is patronising. I am not aware of any other care in the medical system where people are told to take time to reflect when they have made their mind up about something. Indeed, on the approach taken by medical practitioners, they always take informed consent before undertaking any medical procedure. I think that we need to keep all that in mind.

Over the past couple of months I was struck by the lack of understanding among the Legislature about conception and the detection of pregnancy. I ask the witnesses to outline, for the benefit of this committee, at what stage a pregnancy is detected.

Many people were surprised to hear that it is often seven, eight or even nine weeks before a pregnancy can actually be detected and even that is only if a woman has a regular period cycle and is expecting a pregnancy. I ask the witness to elaborate on that for the benefit of the committee.