The leader of the Catholic Church in Ireland has
called on the faithful to renew their prayers in what he termed "these
critical days" for the "genuine protection" of the life of the unborn.
Cardinal Sean Brady made his comments at Termonfeckin, Co Louth, as he ordained Fr Paul Murphy.
The primate asked the congregation to pray about the proposed legislation.
"As shepherds, at all times we want to protect those entrusted to the care of the Church at this time from the threat of abortion," Dr Brady said.
Describing the beginning of every human life as "a mysterious invitation" from God to enter into existence, he warned against the killing of any other human being.