Leo Varadkar (Dublin West, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I trust the women of Ireland and this Government trusts the women of Ireland. I led the Government that allowed people to have their say on the eighth amendment. Indeed, on my first day as Taoiseach, I said that one thing I would do would be to allow the people of Ireland to have a vote and to make a decision on that matter. It was not politically expedient; it was something that I thought was the right thing to do, and I am glad that I did it. The people answered that question and did so with a clear majority. While I respect all sides in this debate, the result of that referendum was very clear and decisive.

Regarding the review, I do not recall having seen the terms of reference. That is not to say that I did not. As can be imagined, many things cross my desk and I will check up on what the terms of reference are and if they have been signed-off on by the Government yet. I do not think they have, but it is possible that they have been. I will check that out. I agree with the basic point made by the Deputy that we should, at least at some point, examine some of the issues around the legislation. The Deputy mentioned the issue of safe access zones, and that is certainly one. He also mentioned the issue of the waiting period. Many people feel it is a good idea. I appreciate that some people do not. We must also look at the issue, which comes up quite a lot now regarding non-fatal foetal abnormalities, which is a difficult aspect and one of the reasons people travel to the UK. Like I said, however, I do not have the terms of reference in front of me. Later in the day, I will see if they have been agreed and take it up from there.

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