Joe O'Toole (Independent)

The most important aspect of the debate is to recognise the times in which it is rooted. The most significant change is attitudinal. As a society, we no longer rush to pass judgment on those who are pregnant outside marriage, but are prepared to support them. As public representatives and legislators the main message to get across is that although State support is crucial, it cannot compare with the support of family and community, especially the extended family of both parents. It is important to recognise there are two parents; even if the young man is in his teens it is crucial that he is involved during the course of the pregnancy. Let me restate that all possible options should be made available and people should be aware of these. I regret the exodus to Britain, not necessarily on moral or ethical grounds but because people go in many cases as they feel they will not be supported. There are cases where families do not stand by a young woman who is pregnant outside marriage.

Yesterday, we discussed domestic violence and Women's Aid but in many ways blackmail and pressure is much worse than physical violence. As a society, we must ensure there is full non-judgmental support. We always go wrong in making a judgment as to the rights and the wrongs of a situation. In this situation a new life must be protected and the two parents and the child should be supported. No support the State can give is greater than the power of love. The child and his or her mother and father need to be loved. I have seen two cases in which teenagers had unplanned children where both parents subsequently went their separate ways and formed new relationships, but are still parenting the child. This proves the point of the importance of love and support. Those children could not ask for greater love than they are getting from their parents, even though the parents are in different relationships. Society may not like this, but children can be loved, respected and developed outside of marriage. It may be more difficult or pressurised but if people are committed they can do it. I believe that today's young parents are better and more responsible than former generations.

We have discussed an important issue and the work of the Crisis Pregnancy Agency is to be lauded.