Fianna Fail leader Micheál Martin has played down any suggestion that his change of heart on the abortion issue could create deep division in his party.
In a surprise move last night, he backed repealing the 8th amendment and allowing abortion without restriction for up to 12 weeks.
Micheál Martin says his change of position on abortion isn’t about trying to boost Fianna Fáil’s popularity.
He says it’s not about polling, and that he changed his mind based on more research into the issue.
Deputy Martin isn’t worried about how it’ll play with his own party members, who are largely pro-life.
Speaking on Tipp Today this morning, Tipperary Fianna Fail TD Jackie Cahill says that the party leader is entitled to his views but it won’t sway his opinions on the issue and the majority of the party remain pro life.
But there has been some criticism of his change of heart.
Director of the Iona Institute David Quinn says he wasn’t surprised by Micheál Martin’s comments on abortion yesterday.
He claims the Fianna Fáil leader was never properly pro-life.
So while Fianna Fail is down playing speculation of a rift in the party over the issue, it’s inevitable that the issue of abortion will continue to be a divisive one as debate heats up.
