David Norris (Independent) | Oireachtas source

They were terrific. It was lovely to meet them. Cathal is very unwell but Ciaran is pretty bright. They are a lovely family. I am glad that the question of Italy was mentioned. The Italians, who have really led in this regard, have offered every possible assistance to this Government to introduce something similar to the Italian law. That is remarkable. I am delighted that the Minister for Health took up that opportunity and met his Italian counterpart and representatives there. That is very welcome news. It is also welcome that Professor Niall O'Higgins has been established as chair of the national screening committee.

The question of public information is vital. We need to let people know. I am very much in favour of mandatory screening. To hell with the rights of parents. What about the rights of the children? Children have every right to be protected against these things and I do not give a tuppenny damn for the rights of the parents. The rights of the child come first. They must be primary. I am sure Senator Mullen will forgive me for saying that he somewhat parachuted in with his interest in abortion and so on but I would like to reassure him-----