SEVERAL Fine Gael members of the Oireachtas who are opposed to the government’s plan to legislate for abortion are flying to America on a “fact-finding mission” paid for by a pro-life group.

Senators Fidelma Healy Eames and Paul Bradford have confirmed they will be on the trip organised by Family & Life to coincide with St Patrick’s Day.

Terence Flanagan, a backbench TD, is also scheduled to go but did not return calls seeking comment last week.

Paschal Mooney, a Fianna Fail senator, has been invited but has not decided yet whether he will go.

Healy Eames revealed Family & Life will pay for the trip to New York and Washington, which she said was “a search for truth”.

The elected representatives involved are also