Louth TDS said no to Repeal Bill

TWO TDS VOTED AGAINST HOLDING REFERENDUM ON EIGHT AMENDMENT

TWO local TDs, Fine Gael’s Peter Fitzpatrick and Declan Breathnach of Fianna Fail were among the 27 deputies who voted against holding a referendum on the Eighth Amendment.

After numerous votes in the Dáil, TDs voted by 97 to 27 on Wednesday night to allow a referendum on abortion to go ahead.

Deputy Fitzpatrick was a member of the Oireachtas Committee on the Eighth Amendment which recommended legislation should be prepared to permit terminations up to 12 weeks of pregnancy, without restriction.

However, the Dundalk TD, who is staunchly Pro-Life, had indicated at all stages that he was opposed to holding of a referendum to repeal the Eight Amendment. He was one of only two Fine Gael TDS who voted against holding a referendum.

Deputy Breathnach was one of sixteen Fianna Fail TDs who voted against the legislation as party members had been given freedom of conscience and were allowed to vote according to their views.

Sinn Fein’s Gerry Adams was absent when the vote was taken while his party colleague Imelda Munster voted in favour of holding the referendum.

Meanwhile, pro-choice groups in Louth expressed disappointment that the two Louth TDs had voted against the bill to hold a referendum on repeal the Eighth Amendment but said it would only motivate them further to ensure the referendum passes.

Spokesperson for Dundalk Pro- Choice Syd Delz said: ‘Despite attempts to prevent a vote from happening, we are delighted to say that there is a visible, vibrant pro-repeal campaign in motion across Louth.

‘Under the Together for Yes banner we are bringing constituents, community activists and political parties together to campaign for a yes vote.

‘Deputies Breathnach and Fitzpatrick voting against a referendum just demonstrates how out of touch they are with their constituency.

‘We are out canvassing and leafleting, and having meetings and the reception has been fantastic. We are getting a very positive reception on the doorsteps.

‘We are very optimistic for a Yes vote in Louth