Paul Bradford (Fine Gael)

I had not intended to speak on this motion. However, having listened to the contributions, I feel we are having a valuable debate that should be reflected upon by Members and the public. Since 1983, when the first constitutional amendment on the issue of abortion was put to referendum, we have had a long debate on abortion, its alternatives and where society should go. During the course of the most recent abortion referendum, the Minister decided to establish the Crisis Pregnancy Agency, which was supported by the Fine Gael Party. If my memory serves me well, the agency may have been a suggestion proposed by the then Fine Gael spokesperson, Deputy Gay Mitchell. The agency has a huge role to play in offering people a real alternative, and as Senator Hanafin said, the alternative of life.

This debate is often emotive and we must be careful about the language we use. However, we must realise that in today's complex Ireland, this subject requires serious attention. We must put in place a series of aspirations for the country of what is the right and best way to proceed. We must encourage the maximum number of girls who find they have a crisis pregnancy to take the option of continuing with the pregnancy. Senator Hanafin's comments on adoption are worth reflecting on. We are all aware of many people who would love to adopt a child but for whom that option is not available. Ironically, many abortions are carried out in Europe each year while a large number of people want to adopt children yet are unable to do so. Many people would be in a position to provide a home and family for a child yet cannot get children from the adoption agencies.

We must put the necessary mechanisms in place to promote the concept of adoption so that girls who find they have a crisis pregnancy see that adoption is an available option. However, we must also realise that adoption does not solve the problem for everyone. That many single women now rear their child is to be welcomed. While the level of social support available in this State is reasonable, it could be expanded. A cutback in allowances for single parents going back to work was announced in the budget. This is regrettable. We should try to keep supports in place for single parents looking after their children and I am disappointed with the measures contained in the budget.

I support the work of the Crisis Pregnancy Agency. I have seen its television advertisements which certainly convey a clear message. Much more advertising is necessary. Perhaps the promotion has to start at school level because at a later stage people may have preconceived ideas. The Minister is taking a very welcome step in the right direction, which is fully supported by all reasonable people. However, the Minister must ensure all young people are aware of the options open to them in a crisis pregnancy. A strong message must be sent out that the State is willing to provide the maximum social and financial support to those with a crisis pregnancy. As we describe ourselves as pro-life, we must put our money where our mouth is.