Billy Kelleher (Cork North Central, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I welcome the witnesses. In 1983, the people's decision related to the life of the mother as opposed to her health. Subsequently, the X case introduced the issue of suicide. In recent days, experts with differing opinions have presented to us. Some were pro-choice, some were pro-life and, as one could contest, some were in the middle ground. They discussed the matters facing us as legislators in trying to address this sensitive issue.

There are two key points. We want clarity and it is important that we raise the issue of suicidal ideation. Yesterday, psychiatrists and expert groups told us that this came in various forms, for example, suicidal ideation, suicidal intent and the finality of suicide itself. Equally, they pointed out that it was only in the event of a woman being suicidal because of her pregnancy that a termination could lawfully be conducted.

The masters of the various hospitals presented yesterday. In particular, Dr. Rhona Mahony stated that she wanted to be guaranteed that at no stage would she or her patients be threatened with jail or criminal convictions because she carried out her duty to protect mothers' lives. This profound statement resonated with many people.

However, Professor Binchy is correct, in that many Members on all sides of the Houses and people in broader society have strong opinions on the issue of suicide. Is he claiming that we do not need any new legislation and that the current structure is sufficient or is he asserting that a referendum is essential for addressing the issue of suicide? The deletion of the constitutional provision may be suitable in his view, but could the issue be addressed by legislation that exempted suicide?