The European People's Party's rowed into the abortion debate.

The current honorary president of the group has written a letter to Enda Kenny saying they are concerned Fine Gael is not allowing a free vote.

Luco Volanté says to impose such severe penalties as dismissal from the party on colleagues for voting in accordance with their consciences on such a fundamental matter is alien to the basic values of the EPP.

Luca Volonte, an Italian MP from the European People's Party, says expelling members from the party on a matter of conscience is wrong.

In the European Parliament, Fine Gael is a member of the European People's Party.

The Protection of Life During Pregnancy Bill is expected to complete all stages in the Dáil tomorrow