Seanad debates

Wednesday, 10 November 2021

Safe Access to Termination of Pregnancy Services Bill 2021: Second Stage

 

10:30 am

Photo of Lisa ChambersLisa Chambers (Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

-----and the Department has been extremely busy, but that is not to say that there is not full support for the legislation. It is in the process of being drafted, which is important. The situation would be very different if the legislation was not being advanced, but the Government is committed to doing so and will do it. That is important. Ultimately, it does not matter how we get there as long as we get there.

There is a sense of urgency around this matter. Senator Moynihan highlighted the challenges being experienced by women because of the lack of legislation of this type. It is important to acknowledge that there have been delays, but I wish to reassure not just Senators, but the public watching this debate, that there is a strong and genuine commitment to delivering safe access zones so that women and their partners and families do not have to deal with what they are currently dealing with. I am not suggesting that all people who have an issue with abortion services are engaging in intimidation, but when we ask ourselves what harassment and intimidation are, it comes down to the subjective view of the person who is experiencing it. The person protesting might feel that he or she is doing so peacefully and does not intend to intimidate, but what matters is how the person who is the subject of the protest feels. If that person feels intimidated, then it is intimidation. It is important that we look at it from the perspective of the person experiencing the intimidation. People in that position are already dealing with quite a lot. It is an emotional and vulnerable time and people have thought long and hard about it. The last thing they need is anyone questioning their judgment when they are already at that point.

The Seanad and the Lower House have debated the provision of services. Services are being provided and, for now, that debate has concluded. This legislation is about ensuring that we allow people to access those services in all parts of the country. We are yet to achieve full access across the country. There are particular difficulties in rural areas that we need to address. I believe that the situation will improve over time, particularly as the next generation of general practitioners enter general practice. I have no evidence to back that up - it is just my opinion.

I wish the Minister well in his work. He will have the support of the House in dealing with this matter. It is something to which he is firmly committed. I thank him for attending to listen to our debate.

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