Simon Harris (Wicklow, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

As this is a very sensitive issue, I wish to be clear on the intention of this aspect of the legislation. Of course, it is the case that when a baby is born, any doctor in the country would move heaven and earth to try to keep that baby alive and care for him or her, but that is not what this discussion is about. Rather, it concerns a situation where there is a threat of serious harm to the life or health of the woman or there is a fatal foetal abnormality and doctors must make a decision as to what they can do in for that woman and her pregnancy. I am sure the Deputy does not intend to confuse the matter, but for the avoidance of any misunderstanding, let me make it clear that when a baby is born, everything will be done to protect and care for him or her. That is beyond all doubt.