Ruth Coppinger (Dublin West, Solidarity) | Oireachtas source

Obviously, it is reasonable for the Oireachtas to have a debate on this issue – I have no problem with that. When that debate is finished, today or tomorrow, my next question arises. It relates to meeting the timeframe of 25 May. I imagine everyone would agree that is an optimal time to have a referendum because it would allow young people and students to vote before exams begin etc. We need about six weeks for the repeal Bill to move through the Dáil. That was the timeframe according to advice given to the Government before the committee sat. It seems there is new information suggesting we do not need that period. That is why I am raising the matter now. The hemming and hawing taking place from the Taoiseach and many others is not giving any confidence that it will actually happen.

I agree that legislation should be published on abortion. The reason I agree is that I have no confidence that this Dáil, with its current make-up, could actually be trusted to enact the legislation unless it gets a public endorsement in this referendum. People should know what they are voting for. I am confident that they will accept it. The key issue now is whether the Government will meet the timelines. It is a matter of a simple repeal Bill. We all know what is needed is a simple Bill of one or two lines. I have a draft Bill along those lines before me. If the Government does not wish to move an appropriate Bill next week, maybe Solidarity-People Before Profit will move a Bill next week.

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