Clare Daly (Dublin North, Socialist Party) | Oireachtas source

We are well aware of the deficiencies in this as a result of the eighth amendment. It was important for us to point that out in our contributions. Even within that restrictive basis, this Bill could have gone further than the Minister has allowed. He talks about there being no new rights in it on which he is absolutely correct. The point we are making is that not only are there no new rights but some of the provisions, particularly those defining “the unborn”, could be a worsening of the situation or make it more difficult to deal with the complicated and tragic cases such as fatal foetal abnormalities or inevitable miscarriage. The overwhelming majority feel this must be legislated for, should be provided for and, according to a significant legal viewpoint, could be provided for within the realms of our deficient Constitution. When one puts a private health matter into the Constitution involving potentially half of the population, then one will have a problem.

I take issue with Deputy Mathews. This is not about whether there will be Irish abortion or not. There is Irish abortion; there has always been. Unfortunately, some very sick or suicidal women will have to leave this country to avail of that medical treatment. The Constitution allows them to travel but does not allow them to avail of it at home.

I do not know why Members are under shocking stress. Some reprehensible decisions have been made in this Chamber like cutting special needs assistants to young people with disabilities. Deputies on the other side did not seem to be in any stress over that. I cannot see why they are so stressed on this. Everyone has a conscience, particularly the mothers, daughters, sisters and wives who, for various reasons, decide they need to have an abortion in the interests of their health or overall well-being. I respect their decision. I respect the ability of the medical profession to treat them on this health matter, as in others. The issue is whether this Bill assists women and their doctors and gives clarity. Unfortunately, it does not.

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