Ruth Coppinger (Dublin West, Solidarity) | Oireachtas source

There are people watching. I ask Members to consider that ten people are leaving the country today or tonight. Studies show that a further five people will take abortion pills which they have sourced online. If we do not get through the debate tonight, so be it. I will be here next Tuesday. There is a reality, however, that people expected the legislation to be in place by January while some Members continue to regurgitate arguments that were rejected by two thirds of the population, including in Tipperary, Kerry and the other constituencies they represent. It is not going to go down well among the people who vote for them to bring those topics up again and again. People are paying €1,000 and €1,500 to travel and all the Members are doing is delaying the process.

As to the request for assurances, people knew what they were voting on in respect of the 12-week provision. Hopefully, someone will be able to go to the doctor and have an abortion without having to give a reason. We cannot anticipate matters and provide Deputies with the assurances they seek. It could be for any reason. After 12 weeks, unfortunately, given that it should be the person's right, the person will have to go abroad. That is the reality. Can we move on, therefore, and let the Bill progress?

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