James Reilly (Dublin North, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I shall deal with Deputy Ó Cuív's contribution first. He has misunderstood the Bill somewhat. The Bill is to clarify existing law. I wish to clearly say that all that he elucidated regarding the complications of prematurity can occur as the law stands. All that we are doing with the legislation is bringing clarity to it for the doctors who have to provide it, the nurses and for the women who need the service. Very importantly, it will give them knowledge on how to access the service.

With regard to Deputy Naughten's comments, I am sorry but he may have misunderstood me in terms of what I have said. I am saying, very clearly, no one has a right to terminate the baby outside of the womb. A viable baby will be supported in all cases. I am not saying that a woman who is suicidal, assessed as having a serious, real and substantial risk to her health, and the only way to avert it is to terminate the pregnancy, is not entitled to that. She is entitled to it.

I cannot give Deputy Mulherin more detail about the amendments at the moment because they are still under consideration. Members will have a full opportunity before Final Stage and will have time to consider them in full.