The government is to introduce legislation and regulation to allow for abortion in certain cases when a woman's life is at risk including the threat of suicide.

Legislation in line with the Supreme Court 'X Case' will be drafted over the coming months by Health Minister James Reilly.

After weeks of a heated debate the coalition in the end ignored nervous Fine Gael backbenchers and went with the advice of the Expert Group.

They will now legislate and regulate for the provision of terminations in certain cases when a woman's life is at risk.

But controversially the legislation will be in line with the Supreme Court interpretation in the 'X Case'

This means the threat of suicide will be legislated for as a risk to the life of a woman.

In a government Statement Minister Reilly says they will provide clarity for the medical profession about what is permissible - doctors will still have to take full account of the equal right to life of the unborn child.

Government 'committed to safety of pregnant women'

"I know that most people have personal views on this matter" Minister Reilly said.

"However, the Government is committed to ensuring that the safety of pregnant women in Ireland is maintained and strengthened. We must fulfill our duty of care towards them. For that purpose, we will clarify in legislation and regulation what is available by way of treatment to a woman when a pregnancy gives rise to a threat to a woman’s life".

"We will also clarify what is legal for the professionals who must provide that care while at all times taking full account of the equal right to life of the unborn child" he continued.

The Minister went on to say that "today the Government has decided the form of action to be taken. We will not preempt the debate that must follow by speculating on details to be decided later in the process".

Labour has issued a statement saying it has now delivered on its pledge to legislate for the 'X Case'.

Taoiseach Enda Kenny has told the Dáil this will not be 'abortion on-demand'.