John Paul Phelan (Carlow-Kilkenny, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I am not sure to whom to direct my question. I have listened for the past three days. I have been at virtually all of the sessions. I am interested that there is perhaps not as much disagreement as I might have anticipated. I want to ask these witnesses about the existing statute, the 1861 Offences Against the Person Act, that, I suppose, is the kernel of the difficulties that were pointed out by medical professionals who were here earlier in the week, and its contradiction by the constitutional amendment of 1983 as judged by the Supreme Court. In light of the fact that all of the witnesses who have spoken have stated that they accept the current medical practice whereby terminations which are required to protect the life of the mother should be allowed, is it possible that legislation would be introduced in 2013 which would see the constitutional provision enshrined in law but that the ban on abortion would be protected? I am particularly interested that Dr. de Faoite mentioned that he was not against legislation per se. Perhaps he might directly answer that.