Terry Leyden (Fianna Fail)

I ask the Leader to invite the Minister for Health and Children, Deputy Harney, to the House to discuss the Government's response to the decision this morning by the European Court of Human Rights in Strasbourg. The court ruled that Ireland has failed to implement the constitutional right to abortion where a woman's life is at risk. I understand Ireland has always complied with the constitutional ban on abortion. This decision taken by the court today is very serious and the Minister should respond as a matter of urgency. Another constitutional amendment may be required that could run in conjunction with the general election next year. It is a very important issue and I hope the Minister will give an early response in this House to this major decision by the European court at 10.30 a.m. today.

I commend two very brave gardaí in Cork, Garda John O'Sullivan and Reserve Garda Peter Clifford, who rescued Mrs. May O'Gorman in Murrough Lane, off Blarney Street. I ask the Leader to send the best wishes of the House to the two gardaí through the Garda Commissioner, complimenting and commending them for their bravery which was above and beyond the call of duty. They rescued the woman from being burned alive in an alleged arson attack on her home.