Adams responds to Toibin stance on abortion bill

The Sinn Fein president, Gerry Adams, says that Sinn Fein TDs must vote in line with party policy on the abortion Bill.

He was responding to comments by Meath West Peadar Toibín TD that he intends to vote against the X Case legislation even if he is mandated to vote for it by the Sinn Féin Ard Chomhairle.

Mr Adams said: “Sinn Féin’s position on this issue is very clear and was reiterated at our recent Ard Fheis.  The government needs to legislate in line with the X Case to protect pregnant women when their lives are at risk and to give legal certainty to medical practitioners. 

“The party is currently analysing the Protection of Life During Pregnancy Bill and the Ard Chomhairle will take it’s decision on the legislation in the coming days. All party representatives will then be mandated on how to vote in relation to the Protection of Life During Pregnancy Bill.

 “It would be a serious breach of party rules for any TD to vote against the party position and they would be subject to party discipline.”

Deputy Toibin has told national media that he will vote before the Bill when it comes on front of the Dail.