Micheál Martin (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

As the referendum campaign draws to a close, it is important to put on the record that this has largely been a very respectful debate with many people having genuinely held positions on the proposition before the people. For my own part, I can genuinely say that on the doorsteps and in meeting with people in the streets people have been very courteous and very fair irrespective of the positions they hold. It is also true to say that many people out there are still conflicted. Many people have had, and are having, difficulties making up their minds on this particular issue. They have articulated this openly to us when we have met them. That is not surprising given the issue involved, which is complex, sensitive and deeply personal for many people. Our cross-party Oireachtas joint committee dealt with the issue thoroughly following on from the deliberations of the Citizens' Assembly. The recommendations of the committee have now been largely reflected by the Minister in the proposed heads of a Bill which he has published.

It is important to state some key facts unequivocally in respect of that legislation. Before I do, it is important to say that if one reads all of the evidence given to the committee, all of the obstetricians who spoke to it were adamant and very clear that where a baby in the womb was viable, they would always the deliver the baby safely, no matter what the circumstances. That is reflected in heads 4 and 11 of the proposed legislation published by the Minister. In addition, it is very clear that the proposed legislation will not allow termination on the grounds of disability, which has been claimed at times. The Taoiseach can also confirm that late-term abortions are prohibited in the proposed legislation, with some exceptions in respect of fatal foetal abnormality and care in a genuine medical emergency. The fundamental point I am making is that the proposed legislation which would come before this House if there was a "Yes" vote in no way represents abortion on demand nor is it comparable to the legislative regime in the UK. That needs to be said.

Over 125,000 people, or approximately that figure, have registered on the supplementary register. Many of them are young people. When I was on Charlemont Bridge with Deputy Jim O'Callaghan last week, they cycled past us in their droves. What is interesting is that many were from all over Ireland and, in many cases, will need to get back to vote on Friday. There may be challenges in doing that and I ask the Taoiseach to join with me in asking employers to be flexible in facilitating people to get out earlier to vote. It is good for our democracy.

See this speech in context