Denis Naughten (Roscommon-South Leitrim, Independent) | Oireachtas source

I thank the delegates for their evidence. Professor Casey indicated that United Kingdom statistics show that four women per year die by suicide before the birth of their baby. Is it her view that this rate would be higher if abortion were not available in that jurisdiction?

The figures referred to by Professor O'Keane seem to suggest a much higher frequency of suicidal ideation in pregnancy than those indicated by the other delegates, the suggestion being that much of this incidence tends to present at GP surgeries. It is disappointing that we do not have evidence from GPs in this regard. In this context, is she of the view that where a decision has to be made by a perinatal psychiatrist, a far greater number of cases will present to them than is currently the case?

The expert group made a recommendation that in cases of physical illness in pregnancy, two medical professionals would have to sign off on a termination. In regard to a mental illness, the recommendation is that a sign-off be required by one physical health specialist and one mental health specialist. Does Dr. McCarthy agree with that recommendation or is he instead of the view that sign-off should require the agreement of two psychiatrists or two perinatal psychiatrists? Professor O'Keane indicated her view that there is not a requirement for sign-off by two psychiatrists. The difficulty I have is that we are hearing three very different stories from the five eminent professionals opposite. Does Professor O'Keane not agree, in light of the variation in views across the profession, that having only one psychiatrist signing off might lead to inconsistent decision-making across the country?