Fiona O'Loughlin (Fianna Fail)
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I thank all the witnesses for continuing this difficult and very complex conversation. There is a huge weight of responsibility on us, as members, in listening, learning and balancing all the information. Outside of the ethical and legal areas, the lived experience of those who, sadly, are dying, family members and doctors is really important. The latter are at the coalface in witnessing people's suffering and vulnerability when they are very ill and contemplating matters such as this.

As regards the questions I will put, it is interesting and good that we have different views as well as a view in the middle, so to speak. I might start with Dr. Twomey. He mentioned the mum in Limerick and the very difficult situation there. Having had a family member go through all this, I can say that the sensation is awful. I remember saying at the time that time is your enemy and your friend because every extra minute you have with the person is worth a lot but, equally, every minute brings you closer and closer to the inevitability. Seeing somebody dying in pain and great indignity is hugely difficult for the person involved and for his or her loved ones. Dr. Twomey mentioned that particular lady. Are there any circumstances whatsoever in which he would consider that assisted dying would or could be used?