Gardaí have said they will investigate threats made to Archbishop Diarmuid Martin (pictured) that warned him to 
be careful while “out on the streets” because of his views on abortion.
Dr Martin said he received the letter in the past week and reported it to gardai straight away, according to The Irish Independent.
Dr Martin said: “I have received also a threatening letter which says because of my views on abortion I should be careful when I go out on the streets.
“There are strange people around, I have no bullet-proof vest on. I have constantly said mature debate should be measured debate.
“The Catholic position is a very strong one about the equal right of mother and baby and that is the situation we have.”
Dr Martin also said yesterday that people should be able to express their views “with conviction”, but added that “extreme language” and personal attacks were not the way “we go forward”.
The Government this week outlined plans to legislate for abortion in cases where there is a threat of suicide.
Dr Martin, who has criticised the Government’s proposals to legislate for abortion – has called for a calm debate on the issue.
He and the other three Catholic archbishops have called for TDs to be given a free vote when abortion legislation comes before the Dail, which is expected to be in the first half of next year.