"A lot of scaremongering" over abortion bill - Bannon

Longford/Westmeath TD James Bannon said there has been 'a lot of scaremongering' over the government's controversial abortion bill.

The Fine Gael deputy, who was spoken regularly about his 'pro-life' convictions confirmed that he intends to vote in favour of the Protection of Life During Pregnancy Bill.

During last night's marathon Dail debate over bill, Deputy Bannon said it was a very restrictive piece of legislation, contrary to claims made by those who were 'scaremongering' in relation to it.

He concluded his remarks by saying he never wished to see a situation where 'abortion on demand' was introduced in Ireland.

The debate concluded at 5am this morning and is due to resume this afternoon.

Longford/Westmeath TDs Bannon (FG), Nicky McFadden (FG) and Willie Penrose (Labour) intend to support the bill, while Robert Troy (FF) opposes it.

In the Roscommon/South Leitrim constitueny, Deputy Denis Naughton will oppose the bill due to its suicide provision while fellow Independent TD Luke 'Ming' Flanagan, who is pro-choice, will oppose it because he feels that the bill's provisions do not go far enough.

Fine Gael TD in Roscommon, Frank Feighan, will support the bill.