Iona Institute urges TDs to 'go with their conscience' on abortion bill

The Director of the Iona Institute, David Quinn, has said he believes politicians must vote with their conscience regarding the abortion bill.

The group is holding a public briefing today to examine two aspects to the abortion issue, which they say have not been debated to date.

The meeting will discuss 'Head 12' of the abortion bill which deals with the issue of conscience.

Mr Quinn said today's meeting will look at the duties of politicians as they see them.

He said: "A politician has to vote according to their conscience, whether that be pro-choice or pro-life.

"They can't ultimately go along with the party whip or the dictates of the Church, they've got to go with their conscience.

"So, if you're a pro-life politician, I find it very hard to see how they can vote for the bill."