Abortion committee prepares to test Dáil

The political year winds down this week, with the Dáil due to rise on Friday and the Cabinet clearing items from its in-tray at what is expected to be its penultimate meeting today.

There is, however, one significant piece of business to attend to in the committee rooms of Leinster House before 2017 is left behind.

The Oireachtas committee on the Eighth Amendment to the Constitution will finalise its report and, as Sarah Bardon reports, a majority of members say they will support abortion without restrictions in the first 12 weeks of pregnancy.

Sinn Féin members, Sarah reports, are seeking permission from the party hierarchy to abstain on the 12-week position, which is more liberal than its official policy of allowing for abortion in cases of rape, incest, fatal foetal abnormalities and when the health, mental health or life of the mother are at risk.

‘Vital’ that abortion not be a crime, says Zappone

---

Women in North turn to abortion pills as number going to England drops

---

Sneaky abortion novels? They’re a new movement, and I’ve signed up

---

Oireachtas committee to recommend unrestricted abortions up to 12 weeks

---

Hildegard Naughton, the Fine Gael Galway West TD, was considered anti-abortion but says hearing evidence at the committee has changed her mind.

Ned O’Sullivan, a Fianna Fail senator, has also said sitting on the committee changed his mind and is expected to support the 12-week position, too.

Although the findings of the committee will not be binding on the Government, Minister for Health Simon Harris has said its findings should be used as “template” for whatever question will be put in a referendum, due next May or June.

Politicians in all parties have paid lip service to allowing the committee to do its work, but its conclusions will test those who were so willing to give it space.

A finding recommending abortion at up to 12 weeks is a more liberal proposition than had been expected when the committee began its work.

However, the exact wording of the referendum will not just be a matter for the Government, with Fianna Fáil key to passing legislation through the Dáil.

Although both major parties have allowed a free vote on the issue, Taoiseach Leo Varadkar and Fianna Fáil leader Micheal Martin will effectively decide whatever proposals will be put to the House, and the country. After Christmas, it will be over to them.