Minister raises doubt over chances of repealing 8th

A senior minister has cast doubt over whether the Government can succeed in liberalising Ireland’s abortion laws, triggering uncertainty about the upcoming referendum before the campaign begins.

Employment Affairs Minister Regina Doherty admitted there is a “job of work to be done” on persuading voters why they should back repeal of the Eighth Amendment and allow unrestricted access to abortion up to the 12th week of pregnancy.

Her candid warning comes ahead of the Cabinet tomorrow reviewing the wording for the referendum, and amid mixed polls on the vote.