Carol Nolan
Question:236. Deputy Carol Nolan asked the Minister for Health his plans to ensure the use of direct foetal analgesia prior to late-term abortions; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [39062/20]
View answerWednesday, 25 November 2020
Questions (236)
Written answers
As the Deputy will be aware, the Health (Regulation of Termination of Pregnancy) Act 2018 sets out the law governing access to termination of pregnancy in Ireland. It permits termination to be carried out in cases where there is a risk to the life, or of serious harm to the health, of the pregnant woman; where there is a condition present which is likely to lead to the death of the foetus either before or within 28 days of birth; and without restriction up to 12 weeks of pregnancy.
The purpose of the legislation is not to dictate the practice of obstetrics. Medical practitioners are bound through professional regulatory mechanisms to operate in accordance with best medical practice. The requirement in sections 9, 10, 11, and 12 of the legislation for medical practitioners to be of “the reasonable opinion, formed in good faith” emphasises that doctors must maintain professional standards and uphold medical ethics.
It would not be appropriate for me, as Minister for Health, to dictate medical treatments or treatment plans.