Mathews to seek free vote on abortion bill

Proposals for a free vote for TDs on abortion legislation will be raised at Fine Gael’s parliamentary party ahead of the bill coming before the Dáil tomorrow.

Dublin South TD Peter Mathews plans to put three motions before party colleagues today, despite a vow by Taoiseach Enda Kenny that there will be no free vote for TDs and senators.

Mr Mathews’ proposal comes as research released to TDs said the vast majority of people said they thought politicians should be entitled to a free vote.