Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 15 January 2019
692. Deputy Ruth Coppinger asked the Minister for Health his views on the Rotunda Hospital placing an 11-week limit on terminations; if he will address the matter to bring clarity for hospitals and those who may be seeking terminations; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1048/19]
View answerAs the Deputy will be aware, Section 12 of the Health (Regulation of Termination of Pregnancy) Act 2018 provides that a termination of pregnancy may be carried out by a medical practitioner where, having examined the woman, he or she is of the reasonable opinion formed in good faith that the pregnancy concerned has not exceeded 12 weeks of pregnancy, after a period of not less than three days has elapsed from the date on which a medical practitioner has certified that the pregnancy has not exceeded 12 weeks.
Officials in my Department continue to engage with the Health Service Executive on a regular basis to facilitate the smooth-running of the service and to resolve any issues that may arise.
I am advised that the HSE has contacted the hospital group in question to bring to their attention that section 12 of the Act allows for termination where the pregnancy has not exceeded 12 weeks, and they are engaging with the hospital to resolve the matter.
