asked the Minister for Health if he is aware of the report of a 21 per cent increase in the number of Irish girls having abortions in Britain; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Abortions in Britain.
8.
I have seen a report to this effect. I, of course, have no responsibility for nor do I wish to comment on the law in Britain. As the Deputy is aware a number of bodies here are endeavouring to encourage Irish women who might otherwise have recourse to abortion to have their children in this country and to use the services provided by these bodies to help them to take care of the children.
What part does the Minister's Department play in helping these people avail of the services?
We do everything we can to help the organisations with their work in this area—very positive assistance.
"Positive assistance" is a very vague term. I meet these people and try to persuade them——
Ceist a naoi.
Is the Minister aware that the back-up service provided by his Department and the health boards is inadequate and that this is responsible for the outflow of these girls to Britain—lack of proper services here? I mean services that are provided in a discreet way for them because of the fact that we are such a small closed community.
I have called the next question.
Sorry, I think this is a very serious matter.
It may be but this is Question Time. I have been recently emphasising that Question Time as I am compelled by Standing Orders to conduct it is question time, not a time for speeches.
I am asking questions about a very serious matter.
Nothing will intimidate me to change from the system that has been used in the past and which must be used now.
May I ask a final question? Would the Minister's Department consider making a study of the facilities that are available and how they could be improved and this made known to these people?
I think I can give an assurance that we are doing that; it is in hand. It is very important work and we are doing that.