President's Council of State to examine abortion Bill

President Michael D Higgins will convene the Council of State next Monday to discuss the abortion legislation.

The Protection of Life During Pregnancy Bill was sent to the President yesterday evening after it passed the Seanad by 39 votes to 14.

President Higgins and the Council will now discuss the Bill's legality, and may refer it to the Supreme Court to decide whether the legislation, or any particular provision within it, is incompatible with the Constitution.