In the new Hot Press, which hits the streets tomorrow (Thursday, Feb. 8th), John Leahy also hits out at Taoiseach Leo Varadkar, claiming that the Fine Gael leader has 'stolen' ideas that were in Renua Ireland’s manifesto.

John also admits that he voted against the marriage equality referendum and he suggests that Protestants, Jehovas Witnesses, Scientologists and Moonies all deserve respect equal to Catholics.

On the Eight Amendment, John says: “We’re the only political party in the country that’s ‘pro-life’. I honestly believe that there’s a silent majority out there at the moment that share the same views as ourselves. A lot of people have, you could say, Christian values – or values in various religions… I one hundred percent believe it (the repeal referendum) is going to be defeated."

Asked if he would disown his own daughter if she decided to have an abortion, as a result of rape: “No, I would never disown my own child. I don’t think anyone would, no matter what your stances are. I’ve taken a stance on my own core values. But if my daughter decided she was going to abort the child – even if it wasn’t a rape situation – I wouldn’t disown my child. I would be disappointed in the fact that she knows the way I stand on things.”

On why prostitution should be legalised and red light districts: “There’s no point burying our heads in the sand. There’s always going to be a want and a need there for that industry. So, why do we have a situation whereby we’re putting women who choose to do that, for whatever reason, in danger? You’re always going to have people who will exploit vulnerable women. Why not try to take the risk out of it for them?”

Stating that he’s categorically against gender quotas in the Dail: “I don’t think there’s any discrimination in politics whatsoever. If women want to get involved in politics, the opportunity is there, in my opinion.”

And he adds, “Women don’t want to get into politics for obvious reasons: it’s a motherly instinct to make sure things are proper and right at home. There’s a lot of unsociable hours and you miss a lot of family time. I think women prioritise family. That lifestyle is not attractive to women. It’s like the priesthood: women are just not joining up because of the time constraints involved.”

On claims that Leo “stole” Renua’s manifesto ideas: “Now, am I crying because Leo stole our clothes? No, I’m not. I’m delighted. If people really want to look at government policy, there is evidence of the Renua manifesto in government now.”

On Donald Trump:“You have to give him credit: against all odds, he broke into the biggest political scene in the world. And he’s better known than Simon Cowell. So, there’s a lot to be said for that… He’ll godown in history.”

In an exclusive interview, John also opens up about his own personal life, revealing that he lost his virginity at 21-years old to his wife-to-be, explains why he’s never had a drink and describes himself as a religious man. But he says: “I didn’t want to sound like a complete and utter dry shite!”

The new Hot Press is in stores now, or you can buy it online here: