Noel Grealish (Galway West, Independent) | Oireachtas source

I will be very brief. The remains of a foetus which has been the subject of a surgical termination should be disposed of in an appropriate setting. There is legislation in place which requires the appropriate disposal of clinical and biological waste. I am of the view that we should legislate so that the remains of foetuses should also be disposed of appropriately and in a dignified manner. This is not unreasonable. Given that it applies only to medical terminations carried out surgically, there is no extra stress or burden on the woman involved. This amendment provides clarity and certainty to doctors on how to proceed when an abortion does not result in the death of a baby. It makes it clear that where there are indications of life after birth, there is a duty to act to save that life. The amendment does not try to dictate what steps should be taken by the medical professionals. It leaves it to those involved to take the appropriate steps.

See this speech in context