David Norris has told the Vatican to stop interfering in domestic Irish affairs.

The Senator has demanded an explanation as to why the Holy See ambassador in Ireland - the Papal Nuncio - is allowed to comment on Irish affairs.

Senator Norris said the current stance by the Catholic Church on abortion contradicts its old opinion where termination was tolerated up to a certain point.

He told the Seanad that the Church used to allow abortion until the 166th day of pregnancy.