Jim Walsh (Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

He did say that. Dr. Bernie McCabe mentioned that, "It is not necessary for the medical practitioner to be of the view that loss of life is inevitable or immediate. This in my opinion is a very low bar". How does she think we can deal with that issue if the bar is very low? Is she saying that the Bill will lead to more liberal abortion in Ireland? Dr. Sam Coulter-Smith and some of the witnesses this morning said that may be the outcome of this legislation. I am seeking her opinion in that regard.

Dr. Kevin Malone sent us a very interesting paper on 28 December 2012, in anticipation of appearing at the January hearings. He said that based on new research, knowledge and understanding of the epidemiology of suicide in Ireland there is a greater likelihood that this legislation will contribute to an increased risk of suicide in Irish males through foregrounding suicidality within the State for females consequent to this legislation. In other words, an amplifying cultural suicide signal through a normalisation effect. He also says it will have implications for non-pregnant young females. Will he please comment on that because I found that quite alarming.

My next question is for Dr. Seán Ó Domhnaill. We met Miss C last week. I understand she was the only person whose case was taken up by the State as a consequence of the X case. With regard to the psychiatric profession, we have seen in other jurisdictions and in Britain that it has given rise to a situation where abortion has become very liberal.