Michelle Mulherin (Mayo, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

Yes. I refer to the remarks of Dr. John Sheehan, perinatal psychiatrist, who noted at the hearings of the Oireachtas Joint Committee on Health and Children that a speedy delivery of a baby is contra-indicated in psychiatry. This constitutes a significant difference between his field and that of obstetrics, where a rapid inducement is often favoured. As Dr. Sheehan outlined, there is a difference in that respect with regard to a physical threat and a threat from emotional, psychological or psychiatric reasons. Therefore, it is of great concern to me that the Minister would see a decision or a certification under section 9 being made as an emergency decision. To what evidence is he referring? Why is he not referring to the evidence from the health committee hearings? Why is he not addressing the fact that at least 50% of the medical practitioners there raised issues pertaining to the suicide grounds. While I am at it, why were no reports or findings made from two lengthy hearings of the Joint Committee on Health and Children in respect of this matter?