David Norris (Independent) | Oireachtas source

I agree with Senator Ardagh's amendment and would like to withdraw mine which also seeks to change the wording from “examined” to “consulted with”.Having looked at section 10, which states a termination may be carried out by a medical practitioner if, having examined the pregnant woman, he or she is of the reasonable opinion formed in good faith that there is an immediate risk to life, I do not see how consultation with the woman on its own would be sufficient. There has to be an examination to determine the medical situation. It is exactly the same with the question of early pregnancy. The Bill also states a termination may be carried out where a medical practitioner examines a pregnant woman and is of the reasonable opinion formed in good faith that the pregnancy concerned does not exceed 12 weeks. I do not see how the amendment I have tabled could work because simply consulting the patient would not be sufficient. There would have to be an examination. That is perfectly logical. With the permission of the House, I will withdraw the amendments.