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

During the course of the debate on this amendment, I had to leave the Chamber on a number of occasions to take calls from people in the medical profession, both ladies and men, who are watching the debate tonight. They could not believe some of the comments that were made here this evening. We are elected representatives and we can say what we like. People have differing opinions but to say that some of those who called me were concerned, worried and upset would be an understatement.

When this amendment is put to the floor, it is up to people to vote whatever way their conscience takes them. People in the medical profession have made their arguments strongly and eloquently explained why this amendment should be passed and why they wanted us to put it forward in the first place on their behalf. We are not doing this as politicians. We are doing it after consultation. We met groups as individuals and as a group. We listened to their concerns and it would be very remiss of us if, after meeting these people, taking their concerns on board and believing in what they want to achieve for themselves and their work, we did not do what we are doing here this evening.

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