Danny Healy-Rae (Kerry, Independent) | Oireachtas source

I cannot see the reason in leaving it to the Seanad when we are asking to do the same thing here. Parents are concerned about this. They would like to help their daughter if she found herself in a position like this, and if she wanted to go through with an abortion, they would like to be notified about it. I respect Deputy Durkan very much. He made a contribution last night but I am glad he is here now. I believe there are far more good parents out there who are concerned and would like to help their daughters. I heard Deputy Durkan's concern when he said that it could happen within the family unit or household. It has happened in those instances and we regret that. However, there are far more parents who love their children and want to care for them and it is only right that those parents be notified to give them a chance to help their daughter at a very traumatic time like this. I cannot understand the reasoning behind letting the Seanad decide it. We have a role to play here as well. We are elected by the people. I still support this amendment because I believe it is necessary and fair.

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