The Irish abortion referendum
Ireland is set to vote on abortion law reform on Friday 25 May. In a the referendum, voters will decide if they want to repeal an article in the republics constitution known as the eighth amendment.
The amendment, or article 40.3.3 of the constitution, gives unborn foetuses and pregnant mothers an equal right to life and is, in effect, a ban on abortion. Currently, terminations are allowed only when the life of the mother is at risk, with a penalty of up to 14 years in prison for breaking the law.
The government in Dublin has promised to introduce legislation allowing for abortions during the first 12 weeks of pregnancy if the vote goes in favour of repeal.
Photograph: Clodagh Kilcoyne/X03756
