Peter Fitzpatrick (Louth, Fine Gael)
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I thank all of the delegates for coming. I do respect them. I have listened and learned. The focus, however, was on abortion and how to introduce it in Ireland.

Dr. Johnson has said that if we reduce the number of unwanted pregnancies, we can reduce the number of abortions. Dr. Aiken has said that when women leave clinics, they are helped with contraceptives. I believe in life and living. I have a little quote: "Enjoy the little things in life, for one day you may look back and realise they were big things". If I google the term "unwanted pregnancies", what comes up is information on abortion treatment in private clinics in Manchester which includes the words "call privately on your mobile", "book an appointment", "request a call back", "trained advisers", "services", "consultation" and "sterilisation". Moving down, the next thing I come across is "emergency contraceptives" which must be taken within 72 hours of unprotected sex in order to prevent an unplanned pregnancy. It is then indicated at what stage it should be done with tablets.

It feels as if abortion is being pushed into people's faces. Dr. Johnson has mentioned that safety is his priority. To me, having a baby is the safest way. Ireland is one of the safest countries to a have a baby. I have been getting a lot of flak for the past four weeks at these sessions, but I trust women. The most important people in my life are my wife and my family. I am trying to be honest. I do not believe in abortion. The first option should be to have the baby. What can we do in Ireland to try to educate people? To me, abortion should definitely be the last option for anybody. When people are looking for help, they have many means of communication. If a woman who does not want to be pregnant is looking for help, the first thing she will do is google and this will be pushed in her face. What can we do to give such people a far better option? I again emphasise that I trust women.