Simon Harris (Wicklow, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I will start with that question. It is a stretch in terms of the remit of this committee but I am happy to answer it. I love debating this issue. It is an important issue and it is vital that we get the facts and the information out. There is no need - when I am in the middle of dealing with a cervical cancer scandal and trying to reassure women - for people to turn up with an empty podium outside Leinster House and ask where I am and why have I not turned up for the debate. People might be aware that there was quite a lot on last week. I had other priorities relating to women's healthcare, but I look forward to debating. Our national broadcaster has scheduled a number of debates over the next couple of weeks. I will take part in at least one of them, subject to being invited and that the broadcaster is happy I am not representing the "Yes" campaign. There are many people in many political parties and many civil society groups and campaigns. I very much welcome the opportunity to debate. I say this in all sincerity. The tone of the debates I have seen so far have been respectful and, hopefully, informative for people. I hope we continue in that vein.

The Deputy makes an important point on the issue of the GP service. If the people of Ireland vote "No", nothing changes. We understand that. If the people of Ireland vote "Yes", the Protection of Life During Pregnancy Act 2013 will remain the law of the land until new legislation is introduced. I have published the heads of a Bill as to what I propose putting to the Dáil. There will be a period during which my Department will engage with the Irish College of General Practitioners, ICGP, and the Institute of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists, as would normally be the case. Both of those institutions will draw up clinical guidelines. The Deputy and I have a different perspective on this. I respect that. I note that many GPs are also in favour of this issue. I know some are not but-----