Michael McDowell
Ceist:18 Mr. M. McDowell asked the Minister for Health the discussions, if any, he has had with the Medical Council on the constitutional review and its implications; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7065/95]
Written Answers. - Substantive Issue of Abortion.
Michael McDowell
Ceist:38 Mr. M. McDowell asked the Minister for Health when he proposes to deal with the substantive issue of abortion; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7066/95]
, Limerick East): I propose to take Questions Nos. 18 and 38 together.
I have previously stated in the House that I do not believe it would be productive to attempt to bring forward any legislation on the substantive issue of abortion in advance of the constitutional review which is due to begin shortly. This review will cover all aspects of the Constitution, other than Articles 2, 3 and 41 which are the subject of separate consultation.
I understand that my colleague, the former Minister for Health, had discussions on the issue of abortion with the Medical Council and that these discussions served to highlight the very great complexity of the issue. I have not discussed the constitutional review with the Medical Council; it will be a matter for those carrying out the review — i.e. the group of experts who will prepare an initial report and the all-party committee of the Oireachtas — to determine what input or consultations they require.