A review into the State’s abortion law is set to recommend sweeping changes that would further radicalise an already extreme abortion regime. Taoiseach Leo Varadkar said he would be “reluctant” to make changes but did not fully rule them out either.

It is understood the report recommends the removal of criminal measures against medics who provide abortion outside of the law.

It would also axe the mandatory three-day waiting period, retaining only a woman’s right to request one if she wants it.

Another recommendation could see even fewer restrictions on abortion when the unborn child is suffering a life-limiting condition. The current legislation allows for abortion where two medical practitioners form a reasonable opinion the foetus will likely die before or within 28 days of birth.

The review would also recommend an expansion of the range of circumstances where a woman is entitled to request an abortion without giving any reason.