An attempt to delay the referendum on the abolition of the Seanad has failed.

Independent Senator Fergal Quinn moved a motion tonight to recommit the legislation for a full debate in Committee.

But the coalition defeated it by 31 votes to 27, despite the defections from Fine Gael over the abortion legislation.

Fine Gael leader in the Seanad Maurice Cummins insisted enough time had already been given to debate this legislation: