Dail To Debate A Call For A Referendum On 8th Amendment

A dispute has emerged between Fine Gael and the Independent Alliance over the issue of abortion.

It's before a debate tonight, on a People Before Profit-Anti Austerity Alliance Bill, calling for a referendum on the 8th Amendment. Taoiseach Enda Kenny believes supporting any vote on abortion would be a contradiction of the Programme for Government. However, the Independent Alliance is seeking a free vote on the issue. Health Minister Simon Harris, says the Citizens' Assembly needs to be allowed carry out its work on the issue.