Harney is right

I DISAGREE with Maireád Scannell (Irish Examiner letters, August 17) who finds it incredible that no Dáil member condemned Mary Harney’s statement supporting emergency contraception for 11-year-olds at risk of pregnancy.

Ms Harney showed good sense and sound moral judgement in recognising there are times when it is better to avoid a possible pregnancy than to risk having one forced on a child, particularly when the law decrees children to be incapable of consent to sexual activity.

Let’s hope the deputies’ silence implies understanding of the complexities of such issues and an acceptance of the right of parents in such circumstances to do what they consider is best for a vulnerable daughter.