Taoiseach Enda Kenny has said he does not want the country “convulsed” over abortion like it was in the 1980s and said any further developments on the issue are a matter for the next government.

Speaking in Dublin this morning, Mr Kenny said Clare Daly’s bill calling for abortion in cases of fatal foetal abnormalities was unconstitutional.

“These are all personal, sensitive, tragic cases,” Mr Kenny said. “The bill presented to the Dáil was unconstitutional. For that reason, the constitution says legislators can only vote on issues that are constitutional and this clearly was not.”

He also said issues surrounding abortion “cannot be treated glibly, that cannot be treated as a matter of fact, as if you can change the constitution like that”.

He said abortion only applies in Ireland when there is a threat to the life of the mother.

Fatal foetal abnormalities and pregnancies in cases of rape or incest are very sensitive and controversial issues, adding: “They must be dealt with in the future.

“This is a matter which to be considered by the next government. I would see a requirement for a rational, understanding and sensitive discussion. I do not want the country convulsed like it was in the 1980s over a period of years with arguments for and against these sensitive issues.”