James Reilly (Dublin North, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I thank Deputy Daly and her colleagues for the work undertaken in the preparation of her Bill. I also thank the Deputies who contributed on the difficult and complex issues raised.

My colleagues last night provided a thorough analysis of the Bill and pointed out the areas where it is deficient. As a result, we cannot support it. However, I reiterate my determination to give the women of Ireland and the professionals working in the health system the legal clarity they require on the issue of lawful termination of pregnancy in Ireland. I have said previously - and I restate it now - that the Government, unlike previous Governments, will not allow this issue to remain unaddressed. Anyone who has read the expert group report will agree it provides a clear analysis of the issues that need to be addressed to implement the ECHR judgment in the A, B and C v. Ireland case. It sets out four options and they are now being considered. I want to put on record my gratitude to the members of the expert group and, in particular, Mr. Justice Seán Ryan, for their commitment and dedication to this matter.

The issue of abortion has divided this country for decades and it has divided political parties and families. It is my earnest hope that this time we can reach a cross-party consensus on the action required in light of the expert group report. The people have it made it clear that they do not wish abortion on demand. Equally, however, it is clear to me that the great majority of our citizens regard the current position as unsustainable. We cannot have a situation where there is any doubt about the right of a woman to a lawful termination of pregnancy in certain clearly defined situations. That is what the ECHR judgment calls for; that is what the Government wishes to deliver and will deliver.

Some people feel the Government is moving too quickly to address the issue. May I respectfully suggest that the people of Ireland have waited long enough for their politicians to do what is right and necessary? However, it is also important that this House debates the report fully and I will listen clearly to the views expressed on all sides. It is also vital that the Joint Committee on Health and Children holds public hearings on the implementation of whatever option the Government chooses on this matter.

While I share Deputy Daly's undoubted concern for the welfare of pregnant women in Ireland, I call on Members to oppose her Bill. A vote on this Bill would be premature, as Members require more time to study the expert group report. In addition, it is flawed and it is not line with our constitutional obligations. The expert group report provides us with a clear roadmap for ensuring the lives of pregnant women will be protected while also more clearly vindicating the right of the unborn. I appeal to all in this House to participate in the 20 hours of debate planned over the next few weeks and this will help inform the Government decision. I hope we can conduct this debate in a calm way, which will lead to a consensus on how to move forward to achieve what we all want: certainty for the women of Ireland on the service available and clarity for those who are charged with delivering it.

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