The government's bill on abortion may be facing trouble in the week ahead, following questions about the jail sentences to be imposed on those who break the law.

Members of Seanad Eireann will be seeking amendments on the clause which sets down a maximum sentence of 14 years for those who procure abortions.

If the bill is defeated in the Seanad, it may be returned to the Dail for another vote, tightening the time window the government has to pass it before the summer recess.

Independent Senator John Crown is one of those pushing for a change in the legislation: