Aideen Hayden (Labour) | Oireachtas source

I also welcome the publication of the heads of the protection of life during pregnancy Bill. As has been noted, successive Governments failed to legislate on this matter. What is before us now represents a sensible and workable solution within the Constitution as it now stands, unfortunately. Irish women who have faced a risk during pregnancy in Ireland have voted with their feet for many decades. However, there are categories of women who cannot avail of the right to travel such as women suffering from mental and physical disability or economic disadvantage. This legislation will protect their lives.

It is an unfortunate fact that women have not felt equally protected in this country. They have, for example, chosen certain hospitals where they have had a choice because they felt their lives were more protected there than they were in others. I agree with the Opposition that we should have nothing but measured and reasonable debate on this legislation. When it is enacted, I hope all women in this country will feel their lives are equally protected.

Will the Leader arrange a debate on the new code of conduct on mortgage arrears? The consultation process was to finish at the end of April. I believe this code should be put on a statutory basis. There were certain measures proposed for the new code that give cause for concern. The House, accordingly, should be engaged in an early debate on this issue.

It has come to my attention that while very few split mortgages have been offered to borrowers, what is on offer varies extensively. Will the Leader arrange a debate on this matter? Split mortgages and other solutions must be put into a proper formal code so that all borrowers know what is on offer to them.