Carol Nolan (Offaly, Independent) | Oireachtas source

I will add to what my colleagues have already outlined in a very articulate and clear manner. I was shocked to find that the Bill did not already cover such a provision. It seems that we have totally lost our way as a society. We have heard much about compassion and human rights. I agree with that wholeheartedly; everyone needs compassion and human rights need to be respected. The sanctity of life needs to be respected. We are talking about the most vulnerable in our society - an unborn baby who is a weak, vulnerable human being.

I am in disbelief that this is not already included in the Bill and I have been contacted by constituents who are on both sides. Some voted "Yes" in the referendum but are stunned this is not provided for in the Bill as are the pro-life constituents, but that goes without saying. I appeal to the Minister to please show compassion and humanity by including this amendment in the Bill. Why would he not do that? It is not good enough to pass the buck and say that it is up to clinical opinion. The Minister, Deputy Harris, is the Minister for Health and has spoken about compassion, human rights and healthcare. Let us give those to the unborn baby who is the most vulnerable in our society.

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