Sinn Féin TD suspended for voting against Bill

Peadar Toibín TD has been suspended from Sinn Féin for voting against the Protection of Life during Pregnancy Bill.

"Sinn Féin has supported the Protection of Life during Pregnancy Bill and all Sinn Féin TDs were mandated to vote for this legislation," said Sinn Féin party whip in the Dáil, Aengus Ó Snodaigh.

"The decision this evening by Peadar Toibín TD to vote against the Sinn Féin position is a serious breach of party rules.

"As a consequence Peadar Toibín has been suspended from Sinn Féin for six months with immediate effect.

"Peadar has been informed of this decision."

Earlier, Sinn Féin President Gerry Adams TD has welcomed this passing of the Bill.

"It has taken 21 years to secure the passing of this legislation," he said.

"It is long overdue.

"Sinn Féin had concerns about aspects of this Bill but we considered it very carefully and in light of the obligations on the state and principles for implementation as set out in the Expert Group Report on the ABC and Ireland case.

"We also took the view that we have a duty and responsibility to legislate for citizens – in this case pregnant women whose lives are at risk – and to ensure that there is clarity for medical practitioners.

"The Bill has now passed the Dáil and it is over to the Seanad.

"However, the onus is firmly on the Government to ensure that all of the necessary resources and commitments contained in this Bill are implemented in full."