Dáil Approves Bill to Remove Mandatory 3-Day Abortion Waiting Period by 86-70 Vote

The Dáil has approved legislation to remove the mandatory three-day waiting period for abortion seekers. The Sinn Féin bill passed by 86 votes to 70, demonstrating a Dáil majority in favor of changing pregnancy termination regulations.

Crucially, TDs from government parties Fianna Fáil and Fine Gael were granted a free vote, allowing them to vote according to personal views rather than party whip. While a majority from both parties voted against the bill, enough supported it alongside the opposition to secure its passage. Seventeen TDs were not present for the vote.