Mr. Muiris O'Connor:

In the work that we have done, we have not found any facility whereby there is anything approximating to a requirement to notify of a protest. There is a courtesy afforded to An Garda Síochána at times of major protests, such as in the classic Parnell Square to the Dáil route. However, that is a courtesy and there is no obligation in law or in protocol to notify of protests. We looked at that as a mechanism through which we could relay, for example, the intended route across a number of safe access zones, so there is not that infrastructure in place.

On GPs and nursing, we are working most directly with the HSE counterparts in the national women and infants health programme. We rely in many ways on their regular and routine engagements. However, we will take on board the points that have been raised here about public information and targeted awareness campaigns for GPs and nurses. It is helpful advice.