Hard on the heels of the jubilation expressed by Ms Dana Rosemary Scallon and her supporters at her success in the European elections came the harsh realities of the abortion debate.
The new MEP for Connacht-Ulster made it clear she would be calling for another referendum on abortion after taking the third seat in the European constituency from Fianna Fail.
Dana, who defeated the other Independent candidate, Ms Marian Harkin, said she believed "the voice of the majority of the people are asking for a referendum".
Her victory was assured from lunchtime yesterday as the votes of the eliminated Fianna Fail candidate, Mr Noel Treacy, were being distributed.
The Pro-Life Campaign yesterday welcomed Dana's election as MEP for Connacht-Ulster.
"Her election underlines the wide public support for a caring pro-life ethos," a representative said.