Protection of Life during Pregnancy Bill is an important step for the government

I would like to welcome the publication of the heads of the Protection of Life during Pregnancy Bill.

This bill will give certainty assurance to pregnant women and their partners that their lives will be safe here in Ireland.

It will also set out a clear path (supported by legislation) for medics who care for women and their unborn children during pregnancy in the event of a life threatening situation.
Pregnancy and the expectation of a new life is wonderful stage in a woman’s life. Unfortunately however, situations can arise where either the mother or the unborn can be in a life or death situation.

We need to deal with this tragic scenario in a way that is legally clear for all involved. The proposed legislation deals with our obligations following the Supreme Court decision of 1992 in the X case and with the ruling of the European Court of Human rights.
For 21 years the X case judgment has been carefully avoided by previous governments, it is a difficult subject but it must be faced up to.

We, as a nation can no longer turn a blind eye and pretend that all is well, I believe there is a very large middle ground in Ireland that wants the legislators to move forward on this issue.

The people have spoken in two referenda and in both cases they stated that the risk to the life of the mother should include suicide.

I look forward to the forthcoming discussions on the governments proposals which I hope will be respectful of all views.

I am grateful to the Taoiseach and his Ministers for their work in providing a mechanism whereby we can respond to our legislative obligations.