Colm Burke (Cork North Central, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I thank both witnesses for their presentations this morning, for their work and for the changes they have brought about over the past number of years. I wish to deal with the issue in regard to section 11 of the Act dealing with fatal foetal anomalies. The witnesses referred to the 28-day rule. I have spoken to medical practitioners who have also raised concerns about this. The witnesses’ view is that this section of the Act should be removed or the Act should be amended to take out this 28-day time limit. It is obviously putting many restrictions on medical practitioners. The witnesses referred to the issue in regard to the Act where a medical practitioner can be prosecuted for making a decision which does not comply with the legislation. Do they believe the 28-day rule is a huge restriction in regard to decisions being made? Is it only a small number? No matter what number it is, even if it is only one a year, it is one too many. Do they believe this restriction resulted in people being forced to travel? Is there any evidence of people being forced to travel in regard to that?