Quinn issues warning to rebel backbench TDs before abortion vote

Labour Party backbenchers were warned today that they are obliged to support the Government's position on abortion law.

The Education Minister Ruairí Quinn said that all members of his party in the Dáil are expected to back the government when a Sinn Féin motion calling for abortion legislation is debated tomorrow.

One Labour backbencher, Ciara Conway from Waterford, has indicated that she may support the Sinn Féin motion unless the Government tables a strong counter motion tomorrow.

However, speaking in Dublin today, Minister Quinn said Labour TDs are obliged to support the Government.

"Every Deputy has to take responsibility for his or her choice," he said.

"They are elected on a Labour Party ticket, in this instance, they are obliged within our own rules to vote with the party on occasions unless there's an indication to the contrary, and there's no such indication [in this case].

"They all know what the consequences are of whatever decision they take."