John Curran (Dublin Mid West, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I enter the debate this evening with something of a heavy heart. I had hoped this was a debate I would never have to be involved in. I was on the side of the debate that was against the referendum. I understand, however, that the people have spoken and they have spoken emphatically.

I will contribute to this amendment, and later I will refer to some of the other amendments in the group. I want to put on record that as a party there is a divergence of views between myself and colleagues. That is not to say we will come to the House and speak on every amendment or that we will prolong the debate unnecessarily. That is not going to happen.

I recognise the result of the referendum and emphasise that it is not a result I would have wished for or supported. I recognise the democratic voice of the people that has resulted in this legislation. I am aware from the arithmetic of the House that the Bill will be passed quite comfortably. The challenge for Deputies such as me is to make sure, insofar as possible, that the Bill addresses the concerns raised with us, that it is scrutinised and that it is as good as it can be. There are some 60 amendments before us on Report Stage. We will be supporting the amendments that offer greater protections to the unborn child and to the mother. We will not be supporting amendments that try to expand the services or try to go beyond what was originally envisaged.

I wish to comment on this amendment specifically in respect of the money and provision of services. I was very taken with the contribution of Deputy Tóibín, where he talked specifically about how people who had voted against the referendum do not want to be complicit or to have their taxes seen as part of the provision of abortion services. He made a very good point. I have been listening to the debate with an open mind and I have considered this point. However, the majority of people did vote for this measure. More importantly, if we do not provide an equal service to all people, what does that mean? Either people will avail of the services in terms of the legislation we pass as funded by the State or, if they cannot afford it, they will find alternative services. My concern is that the welfare of the unborn child and of the mother will not be enhanced or advanced by passing this amendment. I also have a concern that in respect of the legislation we are trying to refine and improve, the 72-hour reflection period, would not be availed of by somebody who might go for a termination in another process rather than through the State system. Having reflected on it and having been taken with Deputy Tóibín's contribution, I will not be supporting the amendment. While I will contribute to debate one or two of the other provisions in respect of enhancing the protection for the unborn child, I will not in any way be delaying or frustrating this Bill despite that fact that I have not been supporting it.

See this speech in context