Arthur Spring (Kerry North-West Limerick, Labour) | Oireachtas source

The experts, who have provided information throughout the day, have been nothing short of top class. It has been very informative for Members of the Seanad and the Dáil and I think lay people at home, who are watching this, will feel very informed. I acknowledge the fact we are trying to become as educated as possible before we make decisions and I thank the witnesses for their contribution. It is rather unfortunate that the regional areas do not get the same level of attention from the media and maybe from other circles which they warrant. I hope that will be reflected throughout the weekend, if that can be done.

The first observation I have is that the regional hospital could potentially be undermined as a result of the level of ability in the maternity hospitals in Dublin. I think we need to put that to bed. I would like the witnesses to be able to say that in the event of an emergency pregnancy presenting at a regional hospital, the skills and the staff would be adequate and that they could cope with what is under the heads of the Bill.

One of the issues which is pertinent is conscientious objection. One has quite a small psychiatric unit and quite a small maternity unit in a regional hospital. If a psychiatric unit is not adequate to deal with a patient presenting with suicidal ideation, does that mean the patient should be referred to a hospital where there is a substantial psychiatric unit? How would that impact on the ability of that person to be able to obtain the services should she merit a termination due to the fact that suicidal ideation is a reality?

Do the witnesses see the heads of the Bill as appropriate to deal with cases presenting? Can we say this legislation does not provide for a form of liberal termination, or abortion? Can we say it is appropriate to the Supreme Court ruling and that we are living up to what is in the programme for Government?