Colm Burke (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

The Bill sets out clearly the procedures doctors must follow in sections 7 to 9, inclusive. The State Claims Agency deals with claims of medical negligence. The insurance is there for all of those involved who are working for the HSE or maternity hospitals. There is an insurance scheme in place. It is not just one person who is involved in the management of a patient. There are consultants, registrars, junior doctors, nursing staff, support staff and anaesthetists. It is a team effort. Everyone on the team intends at all times to do their best for the patients. There is no way the Bill exposes people to any greater degree of liability. It is important that a false impression is not given that the Bill exposes doctors to greater liability. Their job at all times is to do the best for a patient. Doctors will only arrive at a decision on a procedure under sections 7 to 9, inclusive, in a case involving protecting and saving the life of the mother.