Majority of FF Senators and TDs now believed to support abortion legislation

A majority of Fianna Fáil TDs and Senators are believed to be in favour in principle of the Protection of Life during Pregnancy Bill, according to party sources.

However, "a significant number', as described by one source, particularly in the Seanad, remain strongly opposed to the suicide provision. Some Senators are privately saying they will vote against the Bill when it comes before the Oireachtas if the party decides to support it.

Fianna Fáil decided earlier this month to defer a decision on the matter until party health spokesman Billy Kelleher makes a report on the Oireachtas committee hearings on the heads of the Bill which conclude tomorrow.

Fianna Fáil’s 19 TDs and 14 Senators are deeply divided on the issue, but it is known that party leader Micheál Martin is strongly opposed to allowing a free vote sought by some of his colleagues. Party sources said allowing Oireachtas members to abstain in the vote has been mooted, but this has been rejected by some of those opposed to the Bill.

“Micheál Martin and others in the party are privately adamant that the legislation should be supported,’’ said a source.

“Allowing a free vote would be seen as a cop-out by a party attempting to rebuild itself after the devastation of the last general election.’’

One long-time party observer said he believed Mr Martin would face down any dissenters if the party’s Oireachtas group voted to support the Bill.

“This will be a test of his leadership and he will call their bluff,’’ the source added. “He will know that voting against the party is still a big step for a Fianna Fáil Oireachtas member.’’

TD Concerns
Among the TDs, Éamon Ó Cuív, Seán Ó Fearghaíl, John McGuinness and Mr Martin's constituency colleague in Cork South Central, Michael McGrath, who has suggested a free vote, are understood to have concerns about the Bill.

Those TDs believed to be supporting Mr Martin’s position include Mr Kelleher, Timmy Dooley, Niall Collins, Willie O’Dea, Michael Moynihan and Barry Cowen.

The strongest opposition is coming from Senators.

The most vocal, Senator Jim Walsh, is an active participant in the Oireachtas committee hearings.

Other Senators understood to be opposed to the Bill include Labhrás Ó Murchú, Paschal Mooney, Diarmuid Wilson and Brian Ó Domhnaill.

Those Senators believed to be in favour in principle of the legislation include Averil Power, Darragh O’Brien, Thomas Byrne, Ned O’Sullivan and Mary White.