Rónán Mullen (Independent) | Oireachtas source

There is absolutely no question it is why Ireland's maternal mortality rates were among the lowest in the world. It was clearly understood as a matter of law that there was a duty to preserve life that was always in situ, even if that resulted in the death of the unborn. That was best medical practice in this country and was underpinned by law, not just by Medical Council guidelines. The Minister has brought in a legislated right to carry out procedures which are intended to end the life of the foetus and he is telling this House that he is not changing best medical practice.