Anthony Lawlor (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

This is probably the only time I will speak on this Bill. I had looked for a section on which I could speak. I admire the contributions so far from Senator Ruane, but I am concerned about what is coming with the Bill. I have spoken to the Minister previously about the need for the wrap-around services associated with the Bill, which are equally as important. There should be an integrated primary care contraceptive scheme to ensure contraceptives are made available free of charge. There should be an improved education programme which would see GPs visit schools to explain to students the process involved in the use of contraceptives and their availability. In addition to the issues we are discussing now, it is important that we try to prevent as many crisis pregnancies as possible, that as much education and knowledge as possible is provided on this issue, and that we provide the necessary services with regard to this legislation. I would like to hear the Minister's response on that. How soon could those wrap-around services be put in place? We are talking about having abortion services available in January. Can those additional services be made available in January as well?