Coalition set to reject abortion legislation

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.

Independent TDs yesterday launched a bid to force the State to offer abortions to pregnant women where there is a real and substantial risk to their lives.

Launching her Medical Treatment Bill, Socialist Party TD Clare Daly argued that 150,000 Irish women had been forced to travel abroad for procedures since the 1980s. She said the bill was proofed by international experts and she called on government party TDs to back the initiative and allow it to be passed.