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

I know it is not Deputy Healy's intention but I would be afraid in respect of the drafting of sub-section (3) that one could end up recruiting on the basis of filling vacancies with persons who would be able to perform procedures under this Bill. This issue was raised during the committee's hearings and there were concerns that something like this could happen and recruitment could be tainted by the availability of staff to carry out these procedures. In the UK there is the criticism that while it cannot be formally asked it is asked informally at a pre-interview stage. None of us wants to see such a situation arise here. Could the Minister clarify that point?

I have another question on the section which I will put now and the Minister can respond to both questions to save my returning to the second question. Sub-section (3) as drafted in respect of conscientious objection states that the person must make arrangements for the transfer of care. I presume that the responsibility is not placed specifically on the individual nurse or doctor but on the institution as a whole and that the nurse or doctor working with the management in that institution would ensure there is continuity of care rather than the responsibility resting with a particular doctor or nurse to find a replacement. Could the Minister clarify that point?