Peter Fitzpatrick (Louth, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I thank the witnesses very much for making themselves available. My first question is whether doctors and nurses who wish to have no part in abortions under head 4, either directly or indirectly, will be protected in their profession and livelihood?

In the case of a patient who is suicidal but not mentally ill, is it ethical for a doctor to decide to end the life of one patient – the unborn – in order to change the condition of pregnancy for a second patient where no illness exists? The explanatory note under head 4 recognises the absence of clinical markers in accurately assessing suicidal intent.

Is it ethical, therefore, for doctors to partake in such a process under head 4 that ends the life of one patient, the unborn, and implements a life-changing decision for the other in ending her pregnancy?

Are the witnesses satisfied that the proposed legislation will provide for mandatory care for newly born children resulting from later stage terminations in order to vindicate their equal right to life in the court decision?