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Catholic World News News Feature

Mexican Church leaders press for referendum as abortion vote looms April 20, 2007

With lawmakers in Mexico City poised to vote on a government proposal that would allow legal abortion through the first 12 weeks of pregnancy, Church leaders are pressing for a popular referendum on the issue.

A vote on the bid to legalize abortion in the Mexico City district is scheduled for Tuesday, April 24. But Catholic leaders-- who have led opposition to the measure-- are now urging lawmakers to postpone action until the public can vote on the issue.

Catholic leaders report that they have already collected 32,000 signatures on a petition asking for a referendum. Their goal is to amass 36,900 signatures. If they reach that goal, lawmakers will be required by law to consider the request, but not obligated to grant it. Local government leaders say that they are committed to pressing for an April 24 vote, regardless of the petitions.

Church spokesman Armando Martinez conceded, in speaking to reporters, "In the end, the assembly is going to have the last word on this, with or without a referendum." He added, however, that "with a referendum they would be listening to the people."