Brian Cowen (Laois-Offaly, Fianna Fail)

This issue has been debated in plenary session here and on Committee Stage more than any other issue in the past three or four months. As regards the idea that there has not been an opportunity for debate, that all the views have not been expressed or that the facts have not been laid out for the umpteenth time, that has happened here. As has been said, some discussion between the Minister and the IPU took place last week. I understand the IPU is considering all of that matter. The Deputy is aware of the initiative, Mr. Dorgan is involved and let us hope common sense prevail in that respect to ensure we do not have inconveniencing of patients, which would be unnecessary in the context of what we are trying to achieve.

See this speech in context