Katherine Zappone backs February vote on abortion

Children’s Minister Katherine Zappone has backed calls for the abortion referendum to be held by February 2018 after saying the Oireachtas committee tasked with setting its scope does not need six months to decide.

She made the comments as the Oireachtas business committee prepares to receive a draft members list today for the 20-person committee on abortion, despite Fine Gael struggling to find TDs or senators willing to take part.

Asked in Dublin if she supports opposition TDs’ calls for the abortion referendum to be held as soon as possible, Ms Zappone said there was no reason for a delay.