Catherine Byrne (Dublin South Central, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I thank Dr. Brady and Mr. Stephen O'Hare. We listened this morning to the legal end, and yesterday to the doctors. What struck me yesterday was the submission from the master of the Rotunda and the master of Holles Street, both of whom stated clearly and loudly that they should be allowed do their job. I have a short question on sections 58 and 59 of the Offences Against the Person Act 1861. If this was replaced or repealed, how would it influence a doctor's decision? Would it be a good idea? Would it make it easier? In asking that, I do not mean they would be allowed to play God. Would we not be debating some of the issues here, such as suicide and foetal abnormalities? I wish to know their broader feelings on the matter if that was replaced.