Sir, - I am puzzled by medical statements which suggest that our law in relation to pregnancy termination is unclear. Surely the position was made clear by our Chief Justice John Finlay:
"I therefore conclude that the proper test to be applied is, that if it is established, as a matter of probability, that there is a real and substantial risk to the life, as distinct from the health, of the mother, which can only be avoided by the termination of the pregnancy, that such termination is possible, having regard to the true interpretation of Art. 40.3.3 of the Constitution." (Irish Law Reports 1992, page 425).
In other words, pregnancies may be terminated when necessary to save mothers' lives. - Yours, etc.,
Joseph F. Foyle, Sandford Road, Ranelagh, Dublin 6.