Ciara Conway (Waterford, Labour) | Oireachtas source

I thank the contributors on this issue. I have a question for all of them. In recent days we have heard from some of the medical professionals, in particular some of the college obstetricians, about the amalgamation of heads 2 and 4 which would mean we would not differentiate between the health threats to a woman's life and would not distinguish between the threat from suicide or from a physical illness. Late last night we heard from a cardiologist who said this will change matters for some of the patients he treats, and that no longer will women who suffer with life-threatening heart defects have to suffer the stress and stigma of having to go to the United Kingdom to have a termination, He stated that things will be changed for the better for those women. Is that something about which we should be cognisant? Should we give serious consideration to amalgamating heads 2 and 4?

I have a final question on criminalisation for which I seek some input. The Bill stands to criminalise women and girls who procure abortions, for whom there would be a sentence of 14 years. That has a chilling effect. Medical personnel are also involved. In reference to the Suicide Act, I have stated before that although a person who dies by suicide is not criminalised those who aid and abet the person are sanctioned. Is that something we should replicate in this Bill?