Twitter has wasted no time condemning Tipperary TD, Mattie McGrath, in the wake of remarks he made in reference to Senator Catherine Noone as chairperson of the abortion committee.

While addressing the media with regards the Oireachtas Committee on the Eighth Amendment earlier today, McGrath alluded to Senator Noone's physical appearance.

"The fat lady hasn't sang here yet and I'm not talking about the chairperson of the committee or anybody like that," he said in a move which has disgusted members of the public.

Anticipating potential backlash, Mc Grath immediately added: "Best not to say it like that. I'm just saying that as an old saying."

Unfortunately for McGrath, the public didn't accept his hasty explanation, and were quick to use the remark as indicative of a wider problem.

 

According to reports, McGrath has since apologised to Senator Noone, with the latter telling the press: "I won't be dignifying those comments with a response."

Meanwhile, Taoiseach Leo Varadkar has said he is keen to see a referendum on the 8th Amendment next year, confirming: "It's my intention that we should have a referendum in May 2018."

However, he has reminded the public of potential obstacles, adding: "As I do not have a majority in this House, unfortunately, and as the guillotine no longer exists I can't promise you that – because we don't control the House. However it will be in the House's hands, obviously a number of things need to be done."