Denis Naughten (Roscommon-South Leitrim, Independent) | Oireachtas source

Mr. Saunders made the point that the commission has no role under the heads of the Bill. Is he of the view that it should have a role? He also commented on the fact that there are only three perinatal psychiatrists based in the Dublin hospitals. Is it his impression that decisions under head 4 would be made by perinatal psychiatrists? That is the impression some of us would have obtained but the psychiatrists provided different evidence earlier today. Will Mr. Saunders elaborate on that matter?

Under head 3, consultants will sign off on medical emergencies. Will senior midwives have a role to play in respect of this matter? For example, could they offer second opinions with regard to medical emergencies? Does the INMO have any concerns about the structure of the heads of the Bill, as they currently stand, and the impact they might have on some of the smaller units throughout the country, which are very much midwife-oriented?

Dr. Janice Walshe indicated that there is a dearth of large perspective randomised trials. That is understandable because one would not carry out randomised trials in respect of someone who has cancer. Is Dr. Janice Walshe satisfied with the quality rather than the quantity of the research available? While that research is limited, is she satisfied that she has available to her the medical evidence necessary to best advise a woman in those circumstances? Does she have access to colleagues who can assist her in making a determination?