Rónán Mullen (Independent) | Oireachtas source

Second, in terms of figures, there appears to have been an attempt to put in issue the idea that Ireland's abortion rates are lower than those in other countries. Let us take Deputy Coppinger's figures in terms of the proportion of drug-induced abortions, and there was reference to at least three others – compared with ten women travelling. That is a tragic situation. Everybody agrees that some abortions have taken place notwithstanding the eight amendment, but it is a matter of fact that, even allowing for imported drugs, Ireland’s abortion rates are very low. The evidence shows, as a matter of fact when one compares it with other countries, particularly our nearest neighbour, that something has caused people not to opt for abortion in circumstances where individuals in other countries do. Is that not really a matter of fact rather than opinion?