Tanaiste denies abortion u-turn

The Tánaiste has denied doing a u-turn on abortion.

It follows Simon Coveney's decision to back unrestricted terminations up to 12 weeks into pregnancy after initial reservations. Mr Coveney has been accused of a flip-flop by anti-abortion campaigners, but says he makes no apologies for thinking through the issue in as much detail as he has. He also claims his concerns are reflected by many others around the country. Yesterday Cabinet approved the draft laws they would try to bring in IF the 8th Amendment is repealed. Minister Coveney says they've allayed his fears. It's also been suggested that the abortion referendum could be held a week earlier than expected. The 25th of May was to be the probable date, but Minister Coveney says it could be even sooner.