The Citizens' Assembly begin discussion on Ireland's abortion laws today

Discussions on Ireland's abortion laws are underway at the first weekend of the Citizens' Assembly.

Ninety nine citizens have gathered in Dublin under the chair of Justice Mary Laffoy to recommend to the houses of the Oireachtas how they should deal with the Eighth Amendment.

It's the first of several sessions due to take place in the coming months on the matter.

Justice Laffoy outlined the difficulties they face in her opening address: "The Eighth Amendment has been the source of much controversy, since its enactment.

"It is a complex, contentious issue which requires reasoned, sensible and compassionate approach.

"The structuring for the program this weekend however, I felt it was very important that our considerations, are grounded in the current state of the law."