Mary O'Rourke (Fianna Fail)

The Order of Business is Nos. 1 and 2. No. 1 is a motion which was referred to the Joint Committee on Justice, Equality, Defence and Women's Rights for consideration. The committee has completed its deliberations. The proposal relates to the accession of the European Community to the Hague Conference on Private International Law. At present, the EU enjoys observer status in the organisation and the formalisation of the relationship between the EU and the conference is seen as desirable. No. 1 will be taken without debate. No. 2 is statements on the report of the Lourdes hospital inquiry to be taken on the conclusion of the Order of Business and to conclude not later than 2 p.m. Senators have 15 minutes each and may share time and the Minister is to be called upon to reply not later than five minutes before the conclusion of the statements.

A Chathaoirligh, I thought it appropriate that a woman from each group should commence the debate on this report. It is about wombs, which is essentially a woman's issue, although I am sure the men will have strong contributions to make. I have consulted with the group leaders and they have agreed. Senator Feeney will lead for us.