Frank Feighan (Sligo-Leitrim, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

In concluding the debate on the issues raised by the Deputies, I would like to clarify again, on behalf of the Minister, Deputy Stephen Donnelly, that to provide a termination of pregnancy under section 11 of the Health (Regulation of Termination of Pregnancy) Act 2018, two medical practitioners must have previously certified the reasonable opinion formed in good faith that the foetus concerned is likely to die either before or within 28 days. It is essential that we have in place a medically delivered safe and regulated service for the termination of pregnancy for all those who require it if they find themselves in this unimaginably difficult position.

In line with the will of the people, the implementation of the Health (Regulation of Termination of Pregnancy) Act 2018 allows us to provide women experiencing crisis pregnancy with access to a full range of services in this country. However, we must be very clear about the purpose of the legislation, which is to set out the laws governing access to termination of pregnancy in Ireland. Its purpose is not to dictate the practice of obstetrics. It is vital that our healthcare providers are assured that they can be confident in the decisions they are helping their patients to make and in providing the care those patients require.

I listened to the sensitive questions Deputies have raised and, unfortunately, I do not have answers for them. I will take those questions back to the Minister and the Department and try to get a written response in the coming days. I will do whatever I can to get the Minister and the Department to respond to the Deputies on the points raised.

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