Derek Keating (Dublin Mid West, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I have already had the opportunity to express publicly my condolences and my heartfelt feelings to the family of Savita, whose tragic circumstances one can only imagine.

It is very difficult for me to discuss or even contemplate the subject of abortion without recalling an experience I had when I encountered a very good friend a long time ago. It is an experience I will never forget. The person came to me distressed, distraught and unable to come to terms with having returned from England after recently having had an abortion. Under the circumstances, it is important to approach this subject in a calm way. I believe we are now within touching distance of finding a solution. This Government has said it will be the last Government to confront this and that it will not pass on the legacy of having to deal with it to another Government.

It is, therefore, incumbent on all of us on both sides of the House, from all parties and none, to pull back from headline making and political point scoring. I am absolutely shocked at Sinn Féin. I have already asked that the motion be withdrawn. It is ill-timed, opportunistic and political. The party who put down this Private Members' motion has censored one of its own members from speaking. It is important that we are not political at this time. It is easy to be angry but that will not yield solutions. Each of us has the opportunity and responsibility to ensure that when we deal with this as a Government, Parliament and nation the women of this country will have the assurance that they will receive the best possible medical and gynaecological care they need and deserve and that the medical profession is protected in the future, as well as the needs of the unborn children. I believe that is within our grasp. For that reason, this motion is ill-timed, politically motivated and opportunistic.

I will conclude by repeating the words of the Tánaiste. To do nothing is not an option and that is not our option. The people of this country deserve to see the report furnished to the Minister for Health. The Taoiseach and Tánaiste have been appraised of it and the Cabinet will have an opportunity to consider it next Tuesday. That will be followed by the debate and then the decision.

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