Mattie McGrath (Tipperary, Independent) | Oireachtas source

I wish to clarify one point. I was called out earlier to make a quorum for the Joint Committee on European Union Affairs, of which I am a member, and I had to stay for some time. That is why there may have been confusion. I apologise to Ms Zampas regarding the misunderstanding and I thank her for coming. I have listened and read carefully what she has said. In all her work as an international human rights lawyer has she ever raised concerns about barbaric practices, like the treatment of babies born alive after botched abortions and left to die alone without receiving any medical attention or loving care as they breathe their last breaths? It is a harrowing image I present, but, sadly, it is a real one. Is Ms Zampas aware – she probably is – that England and Canada are two countries where such abuses routinely arise and have been well documented? Has Ms Zampas ever taken a stand against such horrific abuses? Is it the singular goal of Ms Zampas in this area to push for wider access to abortion? I am deeply concerned at the complete absence of reference to infants born alive after abortions. What exactly are the views of the guests on that? It cannot simply be ignored.

When I was out, people on social media and elsewhere made comments. I got permission from the Chairman to go to a Topical Issue debate. The Dáil is sitting and other committees are sitting. If we leave the room, there are only 12 or 13 present most of the time. People on social media are attacking me for not staying. I got permission from the Chairman to leave. She allowed me in before my time, in fairness to her. That is pretty pedantic and ridiculous.

The guests may be aware of the developments in the United States today, in particular, the passing of the pain-capable unborn child protection law, which would limit abortion to 20 weeks. It is clear that the international situation is not as clear as some would like to make it.

I take offence at Deputy O'Connell – she is back now – for accusing some of us of telling lies. I am sure it is directed at me and some others. If that happened in the Dáil Chamber, it would not be tolerated and would have to be withdrawn. I appeal to her to withdraw that scurrilous remark.