Kenny: No intent of opening country to 'abortion on demand'
The Taoiseach Enda Kenny is insisting there is no question of introducing abortion on demand in Ireland, while the Abortion Rights Campaign has claimed that the legislation will force women to travel outside the country for an abortion.
Mr Kenny said many of the comments that have been made to suggest otherwise are disrespectful to women.
It comes following the publication of the Heads of the new Protection of Life during Pregnancy Bill by the Government last night.
The Oireachtas Health Committee is to meet tomorrow to decide on how to proceed with debates on the draft legislation.
Speaking in the Dáil this morning, the Taoiseach said it does not pave the way for abortion on demand.
He said: "There is no question or intent, in any circumstance, for an opening for abortion on demand in this country.
"The Government are required to act in accordance with the Constitution, we are required to act within the parameters that are set out with the legal implications of the X Case."
Meanwhile, the Abortion Rights Campaign has said it is "outrageous" that three doctors would assess a pregnant woman who is feeling suicidal.
The group said the measure will only force women in this position to travel to England for an abortion.
Spokesperson for the group Sarah Malone said one doctor should be sufficient to assess the patient.
The Sinn Féin leader Gerry Adams has welcomed the publication of the draft abortion legislation.
Mr Adams said that women in Ireland have been waiting for 21 years for the proposals and that his party will give careful consideration to the Heads of the Bill.
