Imelda Munster (Louth, Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

The Cabinet agreed this morning to table legislation to allow for a referendum on the repeal of the eighth amendment of the Constitution. Sinn Féin welcomes this. The Tánaiste is aware that we will campaign for the vote to repeal the eighth amendment. The timescale for the passage of the Bill is, however, very tight. This issue has already been raised with the Government. There is every possibility that the antics of some Members in the Chamber could delay the Bill if it does not begin its passage through the Oireachtas as soon as possible. It would be a problem for young people in particular if the referendum is pushed on into the summer. They are buoyed up and eager to cast their votes. I urge the Government to not delay the referendum any longer than is necessary. The Bill should come before the Dáil today to ensure that it is passed as soon as possible.

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