Fianna Fáil leader Micheal Martin says he is in favor of holding a special Dáil sitting over the summer in order to get legislation passed to repeal the 8th amendment.
“I would like to see [the legislation] published before the summer recess. I would like to see a second stage debate before the summer recess.,” he said.
It should be possible if we collectively process this to have this legislation passed in line with the wishes of the people as declared emphatically in the referendum.
“That is my position and that will be our position as we work with Government and other parties in the Dáil to give legislative voice to the decision of the people.”
Michael Martin said he did not believe there were “fences to be mended” in his party.
“We had a freedom of conscience which we have been applying since 2013 that allows tolerance and respect for the opinions of others on questions like this.
“As far as I’m concerned, the people have now spoken. Many deputies have contacted me, many who voted no, very clear that they will support a bill and certainly will not do anything to oppose the passage of the legislation.