Calls have been made for the issue of the 8th amendment of the constitution to be dealt with by this Oireachtas and not put off until after any general election.
The Citizens Assembly has recommended a referendum which would give the Oireachtas the explicit power to legislate in the area of abortion, and on the rights of the unborn and pregnant women.
It also suggested that the Oireachtas introduce laws to allow abortion in any circumstances up to 12 weeks gestation, and for other reasons up to 22 weeks or even full term.
Pro-Choice advocates say the Citizens’ Assembly voted to replace the wording of the 8th Amendment and to allow terminations without restriction as to the reason.
Ailbhe Smyth from the Coalition to Repeal the Eighth Amendment says it was a clear message to the Government.
However, members of the Pro-Life campaign say they don’t accept there is a need for a referendum on the issue.
They’ve called the process of the Citizens’ Assembly a ‘shambles’.
Spokeswoman Cora Sherlock says changing the laws will be the start of abortion on demand.
The Public Expenditure Minister says the issue of the 8th amendment of the constitution should be dealt with by this Oireachtas and not put off until after any general election.
But Paschal Donohoe wouldn’t be drawn on when we could expect legislation.
However, one former TD doesn’t expect any decisive action.
The matter is now to be examined by an Oireachtas Committee, and many expect a referendum early next year.
Former Clare Labour TD Michael McNamara isn’t convinced.
