Ciara Conway (Waterford, Labour) | Oireachtas source

I speak against this amendment and dispute what Deputy Naughten stated. I heard very different evidence from the same experts he quoted. Dr. Veronica O'Keane clearly stated in her testimony that crisis pregnancy is the number one risk for teenage girls in terms of suicidality; there is no disputing that. Dr. Anthony McCarthy, the president of the College of Psychiatrists, who I understand is involved in maternal death inquiries - which are done in an anonymous way - would also say there are pregnant women who die perhaps for reasons of suicidality, but the results of inquiries are often recorded as open verdicts because of family considerations and sensitivities. In addition, the chief medical officer of the Department of Health, Dr. Tony Holohan, stated that although this is rare, it happens and we must legislate for it. I dispute Deputy Naughten's statement and oppose the amendment. I may speak again later.