Expert group's report on abortion legislation to be published today

A report from the expert group set up to advise the Government on abortion law will be published following today's cabinet meeting.

The Government will today publish the report of the expert group on abortion. The group was set up to advise how the coalition on options for addressing the issues raised by the 'X' and 'ABC' cases.

The report will be published following today's cabinet meeting. It is expected to recommend the coalition introduces new legislation supported by regulation and guidelines, to clarify when an abortion can be provided where a woman's life is at risk.

The Cabinet will discuss the now widely leaked document this morning. The Taoiseach, Tánaiste and Health Minister James Reilly have already looked at it in detail.

Last night, Enda Kenny said he wanted today's Dáil debate on the issues to be a "sensitive, comprehensive, pragmatic and understanding discussion".

Labour ministers believe the report tallies with their view that legislation will be needed - while a number of Fine Gael TDs are opposed to any new abortion laws.

Meanwhile, the ULA TD Clare Daly is due to reintroduce her proposed legislation to the Dáil tonight, recommending legislation for the X Case.