The majority of voters are in favour of changing our abortion laws, according to a new survey.

The Ipsos MRBI poll in today's Irish Times found that 55% believe the Eighth Amendment should be repealed to allow for limited abortion in cases of fatal foetal abnormality and rape.

Some 19% think terminations should be available on demand, as in the UK, while 18% are opposed to any changes in legislation. The remaining 8% had no opinion.

Women are slightly more likely than men to back a blanket ban on abortion.

Support for repeal is highest in Dublin and among young people, with over 65s and people in Connacht-Ulster most strongly in favour of retaining the amendment.

The Citizens' Assembly will meet for this first time later this month to consider the future of the law.

The group of 100 citizens is due to hold its first public meeting on October 15th.