Ireland Legalizes "Life-Saving" Abortion

Controversial bill in the predominantly Catholic country

Ireland has approved a bill allowing 'life-saving' abortion. MPs voted 127 for and 31 against following an all-night marathon debate in which the Europe minister was ousted over the divisive issue.

Prime Minister Enda Kelly's move to back the bill which allows access to abortion when a woman's life is in danger, including the risk of suicide has provoked a strong backlash in the predominantly Catholic country.

The premier has lost five of his 76 deputies to the abortion debate, compared to one over controversial economic austerity measures. Anti-abortion campaigners sent him letters written in blood.