Ronan Mullen slated for ‘shocking’ comments in final referendum debate

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ronan mullen nui galway 8th amendment comments mental health

Senator Ronan Mullen has been slated for comments he made about mental health during last night’s debate on the Eighth Amendment on TV3.

Mullen, who served as NUI Galway Students’ Union President in the early 90s, said during the debate that “mental health has no evidence base”.

The Senator was also heavily criticised for comments he made after an audience member, Saoirse, bravely spoke about her experience of walking around Birmingham alone for hours after travelling to the city to have an abortion.

“Saoirse, you deserve love and respect regardless of what you’ve ever done,” said Mullen, which was met by audible gasps and jeers from members of the audience.

With less than 24 hours until the country heads to the polls, the No campaign needed strong performances at the final debates.

The current President of the Students’ Union at NUI Galway shared his own views on the Eighth Amendment on social media yesterday.

The debate, hosted by Pat Kenny, was one of two debates shown on TV3 last night, with Mary Lou McDonald and Micheal Martin representing the Yes campaign in the other debate.