Taoiseach Enda Kenny has said that he is willing to discuss the
Government plan to legislate for abortion in limited circumstances in a
meeting with the Catholic church in the New Year. The most senior members of the Catholic Church in Ireland have called on TDs and Senators to vote with their conscience.
In an interview with independent radio this evening, Enda Kenny says the bishops are entitled to make their views known, but he has again ruled out any free vote on the legislation.
He says the Government wants to act with sensitivity to protect the life of the mother with full regard to the life of the unborn.
Taoiseach Kenny says he is willing to engage with the church on the issue in the New Year.
"Actually I have to meet the churchs in January, and I hope to have a good engagement with the Catholic church," he said.
"They've looked for a meeting on their own, and as part of the process of meeting the different religious groups, I'll be happy to meet with them and engage here."