Gerard Craughwell (Independent) | Oireachtas source

We often use the expression, "time is of the essence", in this House but it was never more vital than in this case.

I am delighted and proud that Senator Norris asked me to be a signatory to this Bill. I am also delighted that everybody in the House seems to be supportive of it. Hopefully, the Minister will tell us in six months that we are ready to move and the interim report has answered any questions that need to be answered.

I hope parents and, in particular, young women who are pregnant and experiencing all the fears that go with bringing a child into the world, trust us to do everything and to move hell, heaven and earth to screen for 42 conditions as soon as possible. It is so important that this is done. It is a long time since I was a first-time dad but, more than anything else, I remember the fear of this tiny little being coming into my life and being asked to pick her up. I loved my daughter but she was so tiny and when picking her up I had a fear of breaking her in some way. I would have walked over hot coals to do anything to solve any issue that she may have had. Every parent in the country is the same.

There is a big weight on the Minister's shoulders, in addition to everything that is going on with Covid-19 and all the other issues in health. This is one area which would be a big win for him and every citizen in the State.