Professor Sabaratnam Arulkumaran:

I thank the Deputy for her question, which would probably be more appropriately answered by the Minister for Health. It is true that there is a shortage of doctors, nurses and ancillary staff in the health services and that the level at which these services can be provided might be questioned. I will try to explain how the system is organised in regard to, for example, terms of termination of pregnancy. I work in St. George's Hospital, which provides this service for all of south-west London, despite that there are seven different hospitals in the area. The vast majority - 60% to 70% - of terminations are carried out by prescription. Every week, there are two clinics and two operating lists for suction termination. We manage all the referrals for south-west London. I do not know the population of Ireland versus south-west London. One clinic offering suction termination in each of the big cities in Ireland would be sufficient. Whatever the outcome of Brexit there will be no need for concern if legislation providing for liberal abortion is enacted.