Minister Leo Varadkar says the 8th amendment wasn't considered fully and properly before being added to the constitution.

The amendment, which provides the equal right to life of the mother and unborn child, was added after a referendum in 1983.

His comments come as TDs prepare to vote later this month on a bill - allowing abortion in the case of fatal foetal abnormality if cleared by two medical professionals

The legislation from Wexford TD Mick Wallace will be debated in two weeks time.

Minister Varadkar says considering the repeal of the amendment shouldn't be rushed: