Mattie McGrath (Tipperary, Independent) | Oireachtas source

I did not see this addressed anywhere. I did not hear anybody say what they would substitute the existing wording with. Is there to be a free-for-all and an open-door policy? I certainly believe it is a matter for the Oireachtas and the people by way of a referendum on a constitutional amendment. There should be a fair, open debate without interference from abroad, as we had in some recent referendum campaigns, and without interference from the media. Those who want to speak should be allowed to do so without intimidation.

Let us listen to all the groups that want to have to exercise their democratic and legitimate right to have say in this matter without being subject to bullying or intimidation. I refer to groups such as Every Life Counts and One Day More. They must be given a fair hearing and we should listen to mothers who have experienced difficult pregnancies but who chose not to go down the road that some people are pushing by means of an almost daily diet of calls to repeal the eighth.

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