Colm Burke (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I ask Dr. Fletcher to expand on the issue of lethal abnormality. I understand that under Article 40.3.3° the life of the unborn is protected. If the unborn has only the prospect of surviving one second after being born, the legal position is that the pregnancy cannot be terminated. Dr. Fletcher seems to have a different view and I would like her to clarify that issue.

Ms McDonagh referred to the Mental Health Act and the structures that are in place. In terms of the heads of the Bill, is it her view that we should have a similar structure for dealing with whatever procedures have to be put in place to deal with such an application, especially under head 4, or is she suggesting that a more comprehensive structure should be put in place? Once a decision is taken in this case it is not reversible and when the procedure goes ahead it is not reversible. Ms McDonagh might clarity that matter.