Howlin calls for all-party approach to referendum bill

The Labour Party Leader, Brendan Howlin, has called for an all-party approach in the Oireachtas on the passage of the abortion referendum bill.

Deputy Howlin said:

“It is clear that whatever views individual TDs may hold about this question that a near consensus is emerging that it should be adjudicated on by the people in a referendum.

He said he hoped to meet with the Taoiseach to discuss the issue early in the new year.

“I think we all know that the timeline here is relatively tight but not prohibitively so.

“I am assuming that the Government will declare its intention to proceed with recommendation of the Oireachtas Committee and that that decision will have the support of the Taoiseach at least. 

“Anything less would make a mockery of the process.

“The Labour Party is committed to supporting the referendum proposal when it is put to the people and we will be happy to play a supportive role in ensuring that that happens in a manner consistent with maximising the opportunity for people to vote on the issue, particularly those who have never adjudicated on the issue before.”