Pope’s comments expose Coalition rift

The Pope’s intervention in the abortion debate has again exposed fault lines between Labour and Fine Gael.

In remarks seen as a comment on Ireland, Pope Benedict told an audience of diplomats in Rome that he was “dismayed” by moves to legislate on abortion.

Tánaiste Eamon Gilmore insisted Irish women needed legal clarity on the issue and “more than understanding and mercy” as he clashed with the pontiff.