Seán Conlan (Cavan-Monaghan, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I was very happy with the Minister's response on the issue on certification. It clarifies matters. Deputy Billy Timmins's question illustrates the reason I asked the question. He has attended all of the Oireachtas hearings and understands the issues involved. He posed the question about a pregnant woman presenting and the doctor assessing there was a real risk but the woman then refusing treatment. The Minister has clearly specified that in such a case the doctor cannot certify. However, this is not clear in the legislation. I do not know whether the Minister can deal with it through a definition of reasonable opinion or good faith. It needs clarification because those who are informed may still come to the conclusion that a doctor can certify. That is why there is a problem with the general public having a belief the legislation is not restrictive enough.