I am concerned about the ramifications of yesterday's decision to legislate for the judgment in the X case on the grounds of suicide. This is a flawed and dangerous basis on which to legislate for mothers and children. We have learned a great deal in the past 20 years and there is broad agreement that abortion is not a treatment for mental health problems and that the correct action to take is to treat people for such problems. In framing the legislation we must ensure the most important matter to be considered is the intention in making the intervention. The guiding principle in such interventions must be life saving as opposed to life destroying or life taking in nature. Like many others, I wish to ensure we will not deliver a wording which will, in time, open the door to abortion on demand in this country. I ask the Leader to arrange a debate on this matter as early as possible in the new year. We should, perhaps, have a number of such debates in order that we might frame the most appropriate legislation to protect the lives of mothers and their children, where possible. I reiterate that the intention must be life saving rather than life taking in nature.

On the prospect of abortion being introduced in Ireland, the contributions of Members in the House have been relatively calm. People have expressed their views, based on their own conscience or values. This is important because this is not a matter to be decided by means of a shouting or heckling match. In the coming months there will be a great deal of reflection on the part of Deputies and Senators on yesterday's announcement. They will inform themselves and take soundings from their constituents and those they represent. I hope that when we return to dealing with this matter in the new year, we will do so in a calm manner. This is one of the biggest issues which this House and the Oireachtas in general will be obliged to confront since the foundation of the State. My position on the matter has been clear at all times. If the new legislation allows for the deliberate taking of the life of an innocent baby, it will be repugnant to everything I believe about human rights. It is important, therefore, to be honest and have integrity when discussing the lives and welfare of mothers. Both sides in the debate must adhere to the facts and express their views on how they believe we should move forward in this matter. This country has a proud history of protecting and sustaining human life at all stages and I hope we will not take the opportunity in the midst of panic or otherwise to change our record in this regard.