Mark Dearey (Green Party)

I too call for a debate on the ruling of the European Court of Human Rights this morning regarding one of the three women who took an action over her right to an abortion in circumstances where her life might be threatened. One of the three women had her rights upheld by the court. There has already been talk of a constitutional referendum. I am not sure this is what is needed in this case but the court's findings are binding and it may place an onus on Ireland to issue guidelines to the effect that a woman whose life is threatened and who is constitutionally guaranteed the right to an abortion in such circumstances may have to be facilitated. This would involve a huge change in how Ireland has traditionally addressed this issue and it would give rise to a major moral debate among many people. Talk of a constitutional referendum may be previous but there is no doubt that we face a very serious debate on this most serious matter. It has been brought into very sharp relief by the binding nature of the judgment of the European Court of Human Rights this morning.

I seek guidance from the Minister for Defence on the role of the Army if the cold weather returns. In recent weeks in Dundalk, a barracks town, the Army played a very important role in keeping the streets clear. There may be a role for the Army in outlying areas around the country. Small businesses have been badly affected by the cold weather at a critical time of year and we need to do all we can in an attempt to keep our smaller towns open for business, where county councils may not have resources, particularly at night time. I was contacted by a restaurateur in Ardee, who is terrified of another cold snap in the run-up to Christmas during what is the make or break time of year. I would appreciate if the Leader could give guidance in this and seek to make use of the Army in this civil matter to as wide an extent as possible.