Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin (Cavan-Monaghan, Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

I thank the witnesses for their contributions. When Ms Simons used the phrase "completely demolished" in reference to the Government, I felt like punching the air and shouting "Hurrah". I only wish it were so. I will set that aside, however, bearing in mind that there is very limited opportunity for us as legislators to question delegates in regard to this very important issue. I note that Dr. Ó Domhnaill is a consultant psychiatrist. I raised the point earlier today and yesterday that the Irish Medical Council guidelines for medical practitioners state, as we have had the opportunity to confirm, that under current law in this State - it is case law, certainly, but law nevertheless - where a woman's life is at risk, an intervention is permissible, including in the case of suicidal intent as against suicidal thought or consideration. Dr. Ó Domhnaill has shared his experience in the course of his contribution today and in his written submission. Likewise, we had five very experienced consultant psychiatrists before us on Tuesday who each stated that despite the fact that this is included in the medical council's current guidelines, they had never in their experience had to employ such an intervention. If this is so, and given that we are advised by Government that its intention is to introduce confirmatory legislation, why would Dr. Ó Domhnaill expect the situation to change?

I welcome Ms O'Brien's identification of some of the forces and attitudes in society that have clearly driven some women, including some very young women, to seek abortions. Those attitudes must be confronted by all, irrespective of our attitudes or outlooks on the core issue being addressed here today.

Mr. Manley acknowledged in his substantial written submission that one in 19 Irish pregnancies ends in abortion, albeit on the neighbouring island. He has stated his view that a further referendum is required. Will he elaborate on this, as it is a view that was already expressed by some voices from among the church representatives?