Female Genital Mutilation Bill set to pass through Seanad

The final stage of the Female Genital Mutilation Bill is expected to pass through the Seanad today.

It has already been passed through both houses of the Oireachtas and returns to the Seanad today to allow amendments made in the Dáil to be passed.

Labour Senator Ivana Bacik is welcoming the legislation banning the practice in Ireland and says it is long overdue.

The legislation will also mean that anyone resident in Ireland who takes a girl abroad to have FGM performed there will now be subject to prosecution in Ireland.