Bernard Durkan (Kildare North, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Minister for making his opening statement and for coming before the committee this morning. I tend to agree with the previous speaker in respect of the Irish Kidney Association and its submissions. The association is coming from the position of being directly involved in the issues that can, do and will arise from time to time, and from its own experience. If the association can be accommodated, I ask that this be done. It might seem, on the face of it, a contradiction to opt in and to opt out but it actually is not. It is a double safety measure taken at the time of a particular incident where the family may be in a better position, for whatever reason, to make a judgment that will be covered and will be possible in the event of the opt in and opt out scenario. I ask that this be considered.

Stillbirths is a very emotive and very sensitive issue that has been discussed many times over the years. The parents, and, in particular, the mother, can be very concerned and traumatised by the manner in which the situation is handled afterwards. Whether the disposal of remains or parts of remains takes place is a sensitive issue with them.

I know previous legislation covers most of it but there have been, and will be, other situations that arise from time to time that can and should be dealt with at this particular time from this particular vantage point, given the experience that we have gleaned from them over the years, if their concerns are adequately represented in the Bill the Minister has mentioned before us.

Public display of bodies after death is a very sensitive issue for families and that needs to be borne in mind. By doing a little, an awful lot can be achieved to meet the concerns of families in such situations. I ask if the Minister is satisfied that the Bill in its present form is sufficient to deal with these particular issues and whether or not further consideration might be necessary.

I have to go to the House. I am sure other members have to, too. The final point I would make is that this gives an opportunity to address the issues that have caused concern over the past 20 years, some of which have been partially addressed or otherwise and some of which have not been addressed at all. My question is simply whether the Minister is satisfied that all the issues that have caused concern are adequately provided for in the Bill at present.