Maurice Cummins (Fine Gael)

I congratulate the Minister of State, Deputy Kathleen Lynch. Her down-to-earth and practical approach is and will be very important in her most important ministry. It will be welcomed by all.

I compliment the Green Party, particularly Senator Dan Boyle, on raising this issue because it needs to be discussed. We have had very valuable contributions from all contributors to the debate this evening. There has been much public debate on the administration of ECT. While some perceive ECT as a high-risk, low-benefit procedure, others regard it as effective and safe, and particularly useful in the treatment of severe, resistant depression.

Senators Bacik and Prendergast have suggested that the reference to "unwilling" in section 59(1) be deleted. While theirs is a good amendment and should certainly be supported, the problem relates to the definition of the word "unable". The concern is that those who are not in a position to give informed consent may be denied what could be life-saving treatment. This relates to the point made by Senators Harris, O'Malley and Corrigan. A balance must be struck although this will be difficult. Irrespective of what happens, there will be differences of opinion. I welcome the Minister of State's opinion on this subject and await her comments.