Enda Kenny mulls abortion reform, Fine Gael TD's may get 'free vote' on future legislation
Fine Gael TDs and senators could also be given a ‘free vote’ on any future legislation that follows, the parliamentary party were told.
The dramatic change in Mr Kenny’s stance comes after his party lost several TDs and senators during the current Dáil on the contentious issue and as the Fine Gael-Labour coalition seeks re-election.
Labour have already indicated abortion law reform will be a central part of their campaign, including repealing the eighth amendment of the constitution on protecting the life of the unborn.
During the weekly party meeting last night, Mr Kenny said he would consider setting up another Constitutional Convention (a citizens’ forum) to examine the issue. He said the issue of repealing the eighth amendment would be dealt with “sensitively”.
Recent polls have suggested that voters favour abolishing restrictions on abortion in certain circumstances, including where there is a threat to the mother’s life.
Labour Women launched their proposals on repealing the eighth yesterday, proposing that abortion should also be legal in cases of rape and fatal abnormality.
