Rónán Mullen (Independent) | Oireachtas source

Reports of disquiet and disunity within the Government aside, I welcome the report that social protection rates, as part of the ongoing discussions between the parties in government, have been ringfenced. There is great fear among the working poor about a property tax which some might find unmanageable. There is also fear about the impact of further cuts in social protection rates. It is hoped the budget, while being tough, will be as merciful and as fair as possible.

Also on weekend reports, Senator Ivana Bacik mentioned an opinion poll. It is clear from that opinion poll that there is a great deal of confusion. While many indicated that they would favour legislation to implement the judgment in the X case, two thirds, approximately 63%, indicated they would favour the removal of suicide as a ground for abortion because, as we know, medically speaking, it is a dubious base on which to provide for abortion.