Abortion poll predicts close-run referendum

A new opinion poll tonight confirmed indications of a close result in next week’s abortion referendum.

A survey published in the Irish Times shows that a government proposal to bar terminations except in cases where a mother’s life is at risk would secure the plebiscite support of 35% of the electorate and that 31% would be against the plan, with 34% giving no definite response.

The campaign for next Wednesday’s nationwide poll has exposed splits over the issue in most of the main political organisations and pressure groups, though all of the major opposition parties have advocated a ‘‘No’’ vote.

Tonight’s Market Research Bureau of Ireland figures suggested little impression had been made on the large number of undecided electors highlighted in a similar survey five weeks ago.

Campaigning is set to intensify this week as the Government and opposition groupings make final efforts to win round support.

The latest opinion poll sounding was carried out in 100 centres throughout every constituency earlier this week.