Colm Burke (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I have to agree with my colleagues in this matter. The word "avert" is very strict. That should be taken into account and the word "mitigate" considered instead. I certainly do have a concern on this issue. Action taken may not avert the final outcome and that is something that needs to be looked at from the perspective of the best interests of the patient. All medical practitioners will take what they deem to be the appropriate action to protect the life of both the mother and the foetus. In this situation, however, I am not clear that the word "avert" is the perfect solution. I agree with my colleagues on this matter and it should be examined.