Pat Gallagher (Donegal, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I will clarify the Chair's position. Deputy Sherlock was advised that his amendment was ruled out of order because amendment No. 1 seeks to insert a section after section 70 of the principal Act to provide for ultrasound and other standardised pre-natal foetal diagnostic tests without charge. The amendment is not relevant to the provisions and therefore must be ruled out of order in accordance with Standing Order 154(1). I am advised the amendment could impose a charge on the Exchequer and therefore must also be ruled out of order in accordance with Standing Order 179(3). However, the Minister of State might wish to address this and consider it before Report Stage.

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