Irish prime minister plans to defy bishops on abortion bill
May 07, 2013
Irish Taoiseach (prime minister) Enda Kenny has indicated that he will not be swayed by the Catholic Church’s opposition to legislation that would allow for legal abortion.
"As I explained to the cardinal and members of the church, my book is the Constitution and the Constitution is determined by the people," Kenny said. He added that he had a duty, “as head of government, to legislate in respect of what the people's wishes are.”
Kenny declined to comment on the claim that Cardinal Sean Brady has threatened to excommunicate lawmakers who vote in favor of the proposed legislation. Although the cardinal has made no such threat, the Taoiseach replied: “I have my own way of speaking to my God and it's not for me to comment on that."
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Further information:
- Irish PM Enda Kenny hits back at Catholic Church threat to excommunicate TDs who voted for abortion legislation (Belfast Telegraph)
- Criticizing cardinals for things they never said (City Gates, 5/6)
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