Dáil Debates Abortion Proposals

23.01.2018

The Dáil has begun a special debate on the recommendations of the Oireachtas abortion committee. Despite the extreme nature of those recommendations, including allowing abortion on demand up to 12 weeks, the early stages of the debate were dominated by TDs speaking in favour of them. The debate was launched by Minister for Health Simon Harris, who was followed by Fianna Fáíl Health spokesman Billy Kelleher. Both strongly endorsed the abortion proposals despite significant concerns among their party colleagues.

The first day of the debate was heavily dominated by pro-abortion voices. Michael Healy Rae (Ind – Kerry) made a heartfelt speech in defence of the right to life of the unborn. Anne Rabbitte (FF – Galway East) said the proposals went too far, but she defended the committee (of which she was a member) against charges that it was biased.

Oireachtas Debates. January 17. Family & Life. January 17.