Stephen Donnelly (Wicklow, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

On engaging with women who have travelled abroad, there will be input through various channels. First, the women can input through the public consultation process. Second, service providers who might be providing continuity of care in Ireland may also do so. I have no doubt the civil society groups to which the Senator referred will also have an input.

I am not concerned about the public consultation. Ultimately, this is a policy matter driven by the Government, the Oireachtas and me. We had very extensive consultation in which the Senator and other members were involved. I engaged with the Oireachtas, civil society and service providers to inform all three strands of the consultation. Once appointed, the chair can input into that and we can add anything he or she believes is important. Let us not lose sight of the fact that the review is being commissioned by the Government and is informed as such.