A significant number of Fine Gael politicians are concerned over supporting the parliamentary party during the vote on the Protection of Life During Pregnancy Bill, according to the Pro Life Campaign.
Group spokeswoman Caroline Simons said a very significant number of Fine Gael members felt uncomfortable with the bill, but she would not give out an estimate as to how many TDs were feeling this way.
“There is a real danger to our democracy if people are prevented from voting according to their consciences on life-and-death issues,” she said.
“Political parties in other countries, including Britain, don’t have a problem with a free vote on crucial issues.
The sky doesn’t fall. In fact, democracy is strengthened because the full range of viewpoints is properly represented as a result.”