David Norris (Independent) | Oireachtas source

I have received numerous communications addressed to me personally in the post from decent, well-meaning people. These are printed documents that commence with the words "Dear David" and so on and include videos, pamphlets and leaflets. I have received a number of these communications in my office. Yesterday, as I was entering Leinster House, I was approached by a television crew who asked me my view on the eighth amendment. When I stated I was in favour of removing it, the discussion became increasingly aggressive and harassing. Luckily, I am not easily intimidated.

I have not heard anything from those who wish to remove the eighth amendment. This is a serious mistake as there is a great danger that the referendum will be lost unless the Government gets out and explains the position, particularly with regard to the 12 week gestation limit because that issue causes many decent people real concern. Many people do not realise that the reason for the proposed limit is that the abortion pill is available on the Internet, which means young women can take it without medical supervision and do themselves great physical harm. I call on the Government to start a campaign now, get off the fence and do something to ensure this obnoxious amendment is removed.