Alan Farrell (Dublin Fingal, Fine Gael)
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I thank the witnesses for appearing before the committee in what has been a really helpful session thus far. Deputy Higgins has covered many of the questions I have, but I will just focus on some points with two or possibly three of the witnesses. My first question is for Dr. Twomey. Deputy Higgins spoke about the information Dr. Twomey presented to the committee regarding the position of the RCPI having been adopted in 2017 and reaffirmed in 2020. Given the debate since then, does he think it is prudent for his organisation to revisit that decision? Would it be appropriate for the RCPI to ballot its members given the potential for legislation and, this is my personal opinion, the RCPI not having expressed any substantive views on any suggestions made on the form of any legislation that might occur? That may be a missed opportunity. On that basis, would it be appropriate for the RCPI to review its position and come back to us or at least to participate in the debate at a later stage substantively rather than expressing the position that it is opposed to it?

I thank Dr. O'Shea and his colleague for their extremely helpful outline. Like the previous speakers, I have grave concerns over the progression of this, the slippery slope. I really welcome the conservative approach they have outlined. It is important for the committee to hear that there are medical professionals in the State who have considered this substantively and have looked at countries such as Australia and New Zealand as was outlined. I particularly welcome the idea of an implementation group, should this matter come to pass. It is clearly essential for us to get to grips with what is a very tough question for the individuals, their families and, of course, their medical practitioners.

I start by asking Dr. Twomey about revisiting the decision that was previously made. This may be an opportunity for him to express his opinion on what he has heard from his colleagues on the panel and what, if any, contribution he may wish to make to support or dispel some of the remarks they have made.