Cabinet looks to remain split over bill to 'liberalise the abortion laws'

The Government looks set to remain split on supporting or opposing a TD’s proposals today to liberalise the abortion laws.

But Independent Alliance ministers backing proposals for abortions in cases of fatal foetal abnormalities are considering options, including abstaining from a vote or possible amendments to the Dáil motion.

According to the Department of health there were 26 terminations of pregnancy conducted in Ireland last year under the Protection of Life During Pregnancy Act 2013, according to the latest report on its operation, laid before the Oireachtas yester- day.