Eighth Amendment referendum: Harris to bring draft legislation on vote to Cabinet

Minister for Health Simon Harris will bring the proposal to his Cabinet colleagues in the first legislative step to holding a referendum this summer.

The Referendum Bill - which allows the referendum to be held and clarifies the question that is being put to people - will be published on March 6.

The Government will also publish information in March on its intended legislation in the event of repeal so members of the public will know the exact implications of their vote when they go to the polls in May or June.

The Cabinet has agreed to legislate for access to abortion up to 12 weeks gestation should the repeal referendum pass.