THE PRO LIFE Campaign has today dismissed the idea of a ‘sunset clause’ in any abortion legislation, as mooted by a number of Fine Gael TDs yesterday.

A number of Fine Gael TDs, including Michael Creed, John O’Mahony and Jim Daly, said they supported the idea of a sunset clause, which would involve a review of legislation after a number of years. The legislation could be extended after the review.

Earlier today, Justice Minister Alan Shatter appeared to dismiss calls from backbenchers for the clause. Now the Pro Life Campaign has dismissed the idea of including a “sunset clause”.

Commenting on the idea, Pro Life Campaign spokesperson Cora Sherlock said:

I don’t for a minute doubt the sincerity of those putting forward the proposal but, in reality, a ‘sunset clause’ would do nothing to allay pro-life concerns. There is no getting away from what X Case legislation would mean in practice.

She said that the idea of inserting a ‘sunset clause’ “at least, demonstrates the level of concern within Fine Gael that any legislation no matter how restrictive will be abused”.

Read: Second minister appears to reject calls for ‘sunset clause’ in abortion law>

Read: Fine Gael TDs suggest ‘sunset clause’ in abortion legislation>