Alison O'Connor: Forget phantom Catholic threat and just get National Maternity Hospital built

The Post Traumatic Catholic Syndrome is understandably strong, given how Irish women have been treated over the years, but we must not be blinded by it

Health Minister Stephen Donnelly officially opens refurbished labour and birthing unit at Holles Street on March 7, 2022. He is pictured with Professor Shane Higgins holding a videocall with labour and birthing unit manager Martina Cronin. Picture: Barry Cronin

We are mired in Post Traumatic Catholic Syndrome (PTCS) — a condition resulting in very significant damage being done to the women of Ireland.

As readers of last week’s column will be aware, my own child-bearing days are behind me. However, the way things are looking for the new National Maternity Hospital — mired in controversy for years — I could be well into potential grandparenthood before this much-needed facility is built.