Abortion likely to be legalised ahead of October Budget

The Government is due to bring the date for legalisation forward, following the referendum result.

Health Minister Simon Harris (pictured) will speak to officials today about the fastest way of regulating the abortion pill and creating clinical guidelines for GPs.

It is unlikely that TDs on the No side of the debate will attempt to block the legislation. A number of Fianna Fáil TDs told the newspaper they would either abstain or support the bill, including Pat Casey, Kevin O’Keeffe, Bobby Alyward, Declan Breathnach, John McGuinness, Charlie McConalogue, Willie O’Dea, Marc MacSharry, Eugene Murphy and deputy leader Dara Calleary.

Éamon Ó Cuív, a vocal opponent of the referendum, has refused to state his position.

Independent TD for Kerry, Danny Healy-Rae, said: “There was an overwhelming majority in favour.

“I still have reservations about the 12 weeks but in case anyone is worried, I will not be holding it up.”

The Department of Health is to begin work on establishing the infrastructure to enable abortions in the health service.

The Health Products Regulatory Authority will also be required to create a system for administration of the abortion pill.

Speaking to the Irish Independent, Mr Harris said: “I’ll be meeting with senior officials today to identify and plan the next steps.

“I will go to Government tomorrow asking for formal permission to draft legislation. We will make sure this is an absolute priority.”