Kildare polling stations open as country votes in abortion referendum

LIVE BLOG: Kildare votes in Referendum 2018 on repeal of the Eighth Amendment

Polling Stations across Kildare are open as the country goes to the polls to decide whether or not to repeal the 8th Amendment to the constitution.

We are being asked to vote on a proposal to change the Constitution of Ireland. The proposed change to the Constitution concerns the regulation of termination of pregnancy.

MORE TO READ: Practical advice and information for voting in the Referendum

Article 40.3.3 of the Constitution, states: ‘The state acknowledges the right to life of the unborn and, with due regard to the equal right to life of the mother, guarantees in its laws to respect, and as far as practicable, by its laws to defend and vindicate that right.’ 

That article, known as the 8th Amendment, interpreted by the Supreme Court, means that it is lawful for a pregnancy to be terminated only where the pregnancy poses a real and substantial risk to the life of the mother. This includes a risk of suicide.

The proposal on May 25 is to delete Article 40.3.3 of the Constitution and to insert in its place that:

“Provision may be made by law for the regulation of termination of pregnancy."

This would mean that the Oireachtas can legislate for the termination of pregnancy. 

On the ballot paper itself, you will be asked this question: "Do you approve of the proposal to amend the Constitution contained in the undermentioned Bill? "Thirty-sixth Amendment of the Constitution Bill 2018." A Yes vote would result in the 8th Amendment being removed, paving the way for the Oireachtas to legislate for abortion, while a 'No' vote will leave the Constitution unchanged.

Polling stations open at 7am on May 25 and will remain open until 10pm.