Possibility of amendments to abortion bill being played down

Government sources are playing down the possibility of any significant amendments to the bill allowing for abortion in limited circumstances.

TDs and senators will be able to table amendments to the Protection of Life in Pregnancy Bill, as they are with any other prospective legislation.

However, amendments must be accepted by the minister in order to be included in the final legislation. If accepted, each amendment will be subject to a vote in which the party whip will be applied.