An expert the Government says will be independent will lead the review of abortion legislation that has been in operation since January 2019, Minister of State for Health Anne Rabbitte has confirmed. Pro-abortion groups are lobbying to make the law even more liberal than at present, by dropping the three-day waiting time before an abortion is provided, for example.

Speaking in the Seanad, she said the review will have three strands: women who have had abortions, the abortion providers, and a public consultation.

Under the terms of the Act a review must take place not later than three years after its commencement.

She confirmed that members of the public, special interest groups or any other interested party will also have the opportunity to submit their view through a public consultation process.