A Catholic Church bishop is telling people to remember the track records of politicians on abortion when they go to the polls.

The Bishop of Elphin Kevin Doran has said the next General Election will offer the chance to vote for those who are against repealing the 8th Amendment.

The Taoiseach has indicated he will offer a free vote on the issue in the Dáil if he gets back into Government.

That is despite several prominent Fine Gael members being forced out three years ago when they disagreed with the party's stance.

Bishop Kevin Doran has said politicians' actions speak louder than words.

"We're heading towards an election, and whether there is a referendum or not will possibly depend to some extent, on who's elected," said Bishop Doran.

"Certainly many of those who wish to remove the 8th amendment from the Constitution have made no secret of the fact that their ultimate political objective is abortion on demand.

"That's very clear from some of the political parties engaged in this debate and I think people need to take note of that."