Independents defend right to support abortion bill

Independent Alliance ministers are standing over their right to vote against the Government this week and back proposals — said to be unconstitutional — to liberalise Ireland’s abortion laws.

Pressure is mounting on Taoiseach Enda Kenny to give members a free vote when Independent Wexford TD Mick Wallace’s bill is voted on on Thursday.

Health Minister Simon Harris indicated there is still no agreed position about the bill at Cabinet, which is expected to have another heated discussion on the matter tomorrow.