Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin (Cavan-Monaghan, Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

Some of the earlier contributions would even question the purpose of the Bill. I am absolutely of the view that the Bill addresses the protection of life both of the pregnant woman and the unborn child. There are other battle lines within political groupings and they are not unique to any one party in this Chamber, but they are there. The fact is that a significant body of opinion in this House believes what I have said and accepts the veracity of the case made by the Minister in support of the Bill's passage.

Amendment No. 18, in the name of Deputies Catherine Murphy, Boyd Barrett and Higgins, is in no way in conflict with the purpose and intent of the Bill. It is a reaffirmation, in its own way, of what is already understood and enshrined within the legislation. It is therefore not a proposition that should either challenge or test the Minister's acceptance levels. I would encourage its acceptance because it has a purpose. There are other amendments that provide that reiteration. Some believe that is important. I do not need it. I can accept that it is there and that is given. However, if it helps, I think that it should be given due and favourable consideration.

In his response, the Minister said that I had misrepresented whatever commitment I understood he gave on Committee Stage regarding after-care. That was my clear understanding of his response to me at that time, and I do not propose to put words in his mouth. That was my understanding and I hope at some point that he will clarify the matter. I hope he will live up to what I had expected him to do.

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