Attempts to remove the controversial suicide clause from the abortion legislation have failed.
In a vote at committee stage this afternoon the section of the Protection of Life During Pregnancy Bill was backed by 8 votes to 2.
The Health Minister refused a plea for a "cooling off period" after medical professionals would authorise a termination in a case of suicide.
The Health Committee voting to keep Section 9 of the legislation which allows for terminations when that is the only way to save the life of a suicidal woman.
The Health Minister only made minor amendments to the legislation though signalled he will bring more to strengthen the rights of the unborn even further at report stage in the Dáil next week.
One Fine Gael TD - Michelle Mulherin - felt a woman who was granted a termination on agreement from two psychiatrists and an obstetrician should be made wait.
Health Minister James Reilly said apart from the Attorney-General saying it could not be done, he would not do it.
Discussion on the Committee stage continues and will conclude either late tonight or tomorrow.
The Oireachtas Health Committee is hearing submissions on proposed amendements to the Protection of Life During Pregnancy Bill.
Watch it here LIVE from Committee Room 2 in Leinster House:
