Michael Mullins (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

It is important in a democracy that we have confidence in the judicial system. Without going into the Fr. Molloy case, to which reference was made, if there is a possibility that mistakes were made and that there was a miscarriage of justice, it is important it would be investigated. I support the call made by previous speakers for anybody who has any further information to add to this investigation to communicate it to the Garda and that we would see progress on that in the near future.

I join in sympathising with the husband of Savita who lost her life tragically in Galway. I very much support the calls for caution and sensitivity in dealing with this case. I agree very much with the words of caution urged by the Minister in the Dáil last night but I believe the appointment of an independent external expert is the way to go. I very much regret that the media, particularly the international media, in many instances have been very irresponsible and have rushed to conclusions in a case in which there has not even been an autopsy or an inquest. It is also regrettable that many organisations are jumping on the bandwagon to promote a particular cause. It is very insensitive of anybody to attempt to piggyback on the tragedy of a family at a very sensitive time for them. Until such time as the various inquiries and investigations are conducted, the very least said on the matter the better. If there are other issues to be addressed in the aftermath, let it be done in a calm way. I hope the report of the expert group will be published soon. If we were to have the report by the end of November, it would be only right and proper that this House would see the contents of it and have an opportunity to discuss it in a calm and measured way.