This morning, I attended a press conference of a number of groups concerned about reproductive rights for women in this country in response to the report from Dr. Marie O'Shea. The Irish Family Planning Association said this is a landmark report which draws on extensive public health evidence and expertise. The National Women's Council said it is long-awaited and marks a critical juncture in progress towards realising reproductive rights for all. My question is one that was raised this morning by all the groups, including Doctors for Choice Ireland and others. What is the position in progressing this report through the health committee? Will the Government or the Department legislate in line with this report in the lifetime of this Government? Is that the intention and has the Cabinet discussed it? Finally, will we get an opportunity to have statements on the abortion review in the Dáil over the next week or so?

We can certainly facilitate a debate or statements on the report. The entire report has been referred to the health committee. Obviously, I anticipate that the health committee will focus on the legislative options or recommendations but there are also a number of operational recommendations. The Government has agreed that the HSE will establish an implementation group to progress those particular recommendations. The proposals around legislative change are then being referred to the Joint Committee on Health. It will be a matter for this committee to progress and to come forward with its report. At that stage, Government will examine that and take decisions in respect of this report.