The Dáil has begun debating the Protection of Life during Pregnancy Bill.
The bill provides a legal framework for abortions in Ireland where there is a real and substantial risk to the life of the woman.
Minister for Health James Reilly said he believed the legislation would provide legal clarity for women using the health services, and for medical professionals.
He characterised the legislation as not a change in the law, but a clarification of it.
He told the Dáil the current situation, where there was no legal framework, was dangerous for women who might be denied treatment to which they are entitled, and for the unborn.
He said with no clarity, there could be a "chilling effect" for medical practitioners in providing treatment to save a woman's life
While on the other hand there were no limits on doctors carrying out abortions if they believed there was a threat of suicide, he added.
Mr Reilly said the bill was about clarifying the law for women so they are in no doubt about what is legally available for them, and for medical practitioners to remove any doubt that could cause delay in taking life or death decisions.
If the legislation was abused, he said, he has the power to suspend its operation in the relevant institution and he would not be afraid to exercise that power.
Fianna Fáil's Billy Kelleher said he realises the problems some people have with the issue, but he supports the bill.
After opening statements on behalf of Fianna Fáil, Sinn Féin and the Technical Group, the debate will adjourn until next week.
Fianna Fáil party whip Seán Ó Fearghail has said it is "almost inevitable" that there will be a Dáil vote on the bill, possibly as early as next Thursday.
Mr Ó Fearghail, who opposes the bill, said that it is highly likely the required amount of TDs needed to call a vote, which is ten, will be forthcoming between Fianna Fáil, Sinn Féin, independent and Government deputies who are against the bill.
Fine Gael imposes whip on TDs and Senators in debate
Three Fine Gael members of the Oireachtas have indicated they will vote against the bill.
Fine Gael is imposing the whip on TDs and Senators and Taoiseach Enda Kenny reiterated last night there would be no free vote.
At a parliamentary party meeting last night, Deputy Peter Mathews failed to garner support to allow Fine Gael members a free vote.
He and fellow Fine Gael TD Brian Walsh have indicated they will vote against the bill.
Senator Fidelma Healy Eames has also said she could not support it while the suicide clause remains.
Fianna Fáil is allowing a free vote.
Sinn Féin, which has said it is broadly supportive of the proposed legislation, has said it will vote collectively.
However, Sinn Féin TD Peadar Tóbín said last week that he will vote against the bill.
The Government has said it will not impose time constraints on parliamentary debate.
It wants the bill enacted before the Dáil summer recess next month.
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