Ministers finally discuss abortion bill

Deeply divided views among the Coalition on abortion are likely to see a Cabinet decision on draft legislation on the issue postponed until next week.

Ministers will discuss liberalising the laws for the first time today. The legislation has been in preparation for months and the matter must be dealt with shortly under a deadline agreed with the EU.

The meeting comes after Health Minister James Reilly yesterday denied there was any plan for women who are suicidal and want an abortion to have to face a panel of medical interviewers.