Annie Hoey (Labour) | Oireachtas source

I want to quickly raise the fact that the repeal review, that is, the review of the operation of the Health (Regulation of Termination of Pregnancy) Act 2018, is closing tomorrow. Some 400 people are still travelling for care. Among the issues the Labour Party will be putting into its submission, and a matter raised by several of our members, is that of extending the 12-week limit on access for people diagnosed with fatal foetal abnormalities. We need wide local coverage. There are still counties in which people cannot access abortion healthcare. We need safe access zones. Of course, the Labour Party is supporting the legislation brought forward by Senator Gavan. It is disappointing that we do not have a date for when the Government's legislation will be brought forward. We need to tackle rogue agencies. Telemedicine is so important. Yesterday, England made it a permanent option. Telemedicine expands patient choices, supports reproductive healthcare and is safe and effective. We need to deal with the three-day wait. It is infantilising and does not reflect the reality of any other medical care. A person knows his or her own body and mind. The three-day wait has to go. I encourage all Members to please make a submission online. It takes less than 15 minute. The Labour Party will be making a submission.