24/07/2013

President Higgins To Consider Protection Of Life Bill

Having cleared the Seanad, President Michael D Higgins will now be presented with a copy of the Protection of Life During Pregnancy Bill for consideration.

The president will have one week in which to decide whether he will sign the Bill into law, or forward it to the Supreme Court who will test its compliance with the Constitution.

If he chooses to send it to the Supreme Court, President Higgins must first consult the Council of State, which is made up of current and former senior office holders and seven of the president's own appointees.

However, he does not have to heed its advice.

If referred, the Supreme Court, will have up to 60 days to reach a decision.

Should the court approve the bill, its constitutionality could not be subsequently challenged and it automatically becomes law.

(MH/CD)


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