Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 23 July 2019
1758. Deputy Micheál Martin asked the Minister for Health if his attention has been drawn to maternity hospitals that may have breached section 20 of the Health (Regulation of Termination of Pregnancy) Act 2018; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33985/19]
View answerAs the Deputy is aware, under section 20 of the Health (Regulation of Termination of Pregnancy) Act 2018, a notification of each termination of pregnancy carried out under the legislation must be notified to the Minister for Health within 28 days of it being carried out.
I assume the Deputy’s question has been raised in relation to the recent case concerning termination of pregnancy in the National Maternity Hospital. I am, of course, aware of it but it would be inappropriate for me to comment on an individual case.
Our overriding concern at this time must be for the couple involved.
I have been advised that steps are being taken to have an independent review of this case undertaken. It is important to await the results of that review, which will allow for a better understanding of what has occurred. It will also allow for any learning that may emerge to be disseminated throughout the health system.
