Q&A

What is the referendum about?

Irish citizens are being asked to vote yes or no to repealing the Eighth Amendment of the Irish Constitution, which states that a foetus and its mother have an equal right to life. Constitutional changes must be approved by referendum.

What is the Eighth Amendment?

In a referendum in 1983, a clause to the constitution was added, saying the mother and her unborn baby had separate lives and rights. This prevents abortion in hospital unless the mother’s life is at risk – which applied to 25 cases last year.

How strict is it?

Terminations are banned even if the baby was the result of rape or incest, or is so ill it will die in the womb. But more women are illegally buying abortion pills online, which can lead to 14 years in jail.

Can women travel abroad for abortions?

Yes, following a referendum in 1992. This was caused by the outcry over a girl of 14 who became pregnant after being raped, but was banned from going abroad for an abortion.

What is the likely outcome on Friday?

The Yes campaign initially had a clear lead, but the No camp has gained ground – and there are a significant number of Don’t Knows, meaning the contest is too close to call.