Billy Kelleher (Cork North Central, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

The reason conscientious objection is very important and must not be abused is that women may find themselves in very vulnerable positions and unable to access the healthcare they need. If a doctor fails to refer a woman on, it could leave her in a very vulnerable position. Not every woman has an ordered life. The lives of some are very chaotic, with some women enduring abuse and violence. Some women may not have English as their first language and may feel very isolated in this country. There can be many reasons for seeking a termination. It would be fundamentally wrong not to obligate a doctor to, at least, refer on a woman seeking a termination. The idea that one would just give such women a telephone number and close the door is unacceptable.

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