Taoiseach announces referendum on abortion
A referendum to reform the law on abortion is to be put to the Irish people.
Taoiseach Bertie Ahern has announced a list of proposals to reform the existing law on abortion and to establish a State agency to help women in crisis pregnancy.
If passed, suicide would no longer be a grounds for legal abortion in the State.
But the morning after pill, and the right to information and travel for abortion will be allowed.
In short, the new legislation would clearly define what abortion is and what it isn't, what's prohibited and what is not.
Details of the new statutory agency to help women with crisis pregnancies, or a date for the referendum have not been announced.
