Enda Kenny considers free vote for Independents on abortion

Enda Kenny looks set to “soften” his position with Independent Alliance ministers and allow them a free vote on proposed legislation this week to liberalise Ireland’s abortion laws.

Ahead of a tense meeting between Fine Gael ministers and Independent ministers at Cabinet today, there were signs last night that a compromise would be agreed on the Bill.

Government sources said Mr Kenny looks set to “bite his lip” and accept alliance ministers supporting TD Mick Wallace’s abortion bill — despite legal advice it is “unconstitutional”.