Simon Coveney against abortion on demand

Fine Gael leadership contender Simon Coveney has said he is uncomfortable with some parts of the Citizens’ Assembly’s recommendations and will not vote in favour of what he called “abortion on demand”.

The Housing Minister risked dividing public opinion on the issue as he confirmed that he is in favour of holding referenda on abortion and presidential election reforms on the same day in 2018.

Speaking to reporters as Taoiseach Enda Kenny again refused to discuss his resignation date, Mr Coveney effectively made the abortion debate a key Fine Gael election issue.