John Gilroy (Labour)

I would be slow to support this amendment. When we discussed this Bill on Second Stage a few weeks ago, Senators mentioned that there has been confusion and concern among the professional bodies and representative organisations. The Minister clarified the matter at that time. We cannot tolerate or accept anyone who does not work within best international practice, or who works without indemnity. This is what section 40 aims to achieve. Section 41 covers circumstances in which a deterioration in the health status of a woman in labour requires the midwife to stop working. If the health of a woman in childbirth deteriorates, the midwife moves from a birthing situation to a first aid situation. That is clearly covered under section 41. If one considers this matter in the context of section 40 alone, one can see where concern can arise. However, one needs to consider the whole Bill and the rules which will describe the conditions attaching to the framework of indemnity offered by the State in this area. The whole approach addresses the concerns that have been raised. The representative bodies have moved to accept this.