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Seanad
‹ Order of Business

State-funded counselling allegations

Summary

Senator Wilson backs calls for scrutiny of allegations that a State-funded organisation withheld information about Marie Stopes, but the Chair again rules that the previous day’s debate cannot be reopened.

I second Senator Norris's amendment to the Order of Business. I wish to pay tribute to the acting leader of our group, Senator White, not only in respect of her contribution on the Order of Business but for the work she has done with regard to the policy document she and our party leader, Deputy Martin, will be launching this afternoon. I wish all Senators and the staff a happy holiday season.

Senator Mullen raised a very serious matter. Some other Senators may not like to hear this, but it is extremely serious when an organisation funded by the State is aware of information which indicates that an abortion clinic is dangerous to women's health and does not pass it on to vulnerable individuals who are in crisis. Some months ago, thanks to an undercover investigation conducted by the Irish Independent, we discovered that the Irish Family Planning Association was endangering-----

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Paddy Burke An Cathaoirleach Fine Gael

We are not reopening yesterday's debate.

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-----the lives of vulnerable women by failing to pass on information regarding the Marie Stopes clinic.

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On a point of order, once again, very serious allegations are being made.

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Paddy Burke An Cathaoirleach Fine Gael

That is not a point of order.

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A number of Senators are making such allegations on a continual basis.

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The organisation was passing on dangerous, illegal and life-endangering information.

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Paddy Burke An Cathaoirleach Fine Gael

Does the Senator have a question for the Leader?

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This is a serious matter and it should not just be brushed aside by some Members of this House.

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