A senator has rejected claims that he suggested four women had a wider agenda as they told of their experiences of travelling for abortion due to fatal foetal abnormalities.

Independent Senator Rónán Mullen has described as "inaccurate and misleading" reports on his recent conversation with a group of women who spoke to Oireachtas members on their experiences of travelling for abortion due to fatal foetal abnormalities.

James Reilly, the health minister, last night faced down a bid to legalise abortion for women whose lives are at risk but pledged that action would be taken to minimise dangers for them.

Four women who were forced to leave the country to have an abortion during difficult pregnancies met 25 politicians in Leinster House today.