Moderates must not be cowed by zealots

In the few days since Savita Halappenavar’s tragic death came to dominate the news cycle, we have had a glimpse of why this issue is so toxic and so difficult to resolve.

We have all been reminded, as if we could forget, why politicians run for cover when the subject pushes its way back onto the public stage.

Public and private discussions almost all reveal a depth of feeling that makes rational thought or action all but impossible. Emotion dominates debate virtually to the exclusion of any other influence. This is to the detriment of all involved, especially to the next woman unfortunate enough to find herself in the same unacceptable position as Savita Halappenavar.