The abortion bill has been sent to the President to be signed into law.

The Protection of Life During Pregnancy Bill passed the Seanad by 39 votes to 14 this evening.

Opposition senators were deeply critical of the time allotted for the bill, with only a small fraction of amendments considered.

President Higgins will now either sign the bill into law early next week, or convene the Council of State to discuss the legality of the bill.