Memo on citizens’ assembly for Dáil

The first steps to setting up a citizens’ assembly to examine possible changes to abortion laws will be brought before the Cabinet today.

Taoiseach Enda Kenny has committed to setting up the 100-member assembly within six months, which means the new body will be unlikely to begin its work until closer to the end of the year.

The memo going to the Cabinet today will also include reference to the need for fresh legislation to amend the electoral register, in order for the members of the new assembly to be chosen from the public. This is to ensure that it is updated so a fair, representative sample of citizens are chosen for the new body.