22/10/2015

Sinn Féin Welcomes Marriage Equality

Sinn Féin Senator Trevor Ó Clochartaigh has welcomed a bill providing marriage equality for same-sex couples. Speaking during a debate on the Marriage Bill 2015, Senator Ó Clochartaigh said: "Today is a momentous occasion and brings an end to a two-tier system of marriage inequality. It is hard to put into words the effects the bill this will have on the lives of thousands of people and their families.

"I have no doubt that in years to come the 23rd of May will be seen as one of Ireland's proudest moments. The referendum result of 22 May 2015 changed lives forever and was the result of a long hard fought campaign by gay rights activists. I salute them and acknowledge their historic struggle."

In May, a referendum was held in Ireland other whether to legalise gay marriage, with an overwhelming majority in support of amending the law. It is thought the first same-sex marriages will be held in Ireland later this year.

(JP)

Related Irish News Stories
Click here for the latest headlines.

17 September 2015
Marriage Bill 2015 To Be Published
The Irish Government has approved the publication of the Marriage Bill 2015. The Marriage Bill 2015 will update the country's laws on marriages to enable couples to marry without distinction as to their sex, following a 'Yes' vote in a Marriage Equality referendum in May of this year. Article 41.
15 January 2015
Labour Welcomes Poll Showing Support For Marriage Equality
A new poll has revealed that up to 80% of people support same-sex marriage, Labour Party TD and Co-Chair of Labour LGBT, John Lyons, has said. Highlighting the Red C/Paddy Power poll, Mr Lyons said: "(The) poll builds upon consecutive national polls which show consistent support to afford gay and lesbian couples the right to civil marriage.
05 November 2013
Same-Sex Marriage Referendum For 2015
A referendum on same-sex marriage is to be held in 2015, following an agreement by the Cabinet to push for the vote. The announcement follows statements by Tánaiste Eamon Gilmore, who today announced he would like to see the referendum within the lifetime of the government. It is thought the referendum will be held mid-2015.
23 October 2015
Seanad Passes Marriage Bill
A law to allow same-sex marriages to be held in Ireland has passed through the Oireachtas. This means the Marriage Bill is ready to be signed into law. Once a commencement order is signed, which could take place within the next two months, marriage ceremonies can begin.
26 May 2015
Marriage Referendum Results Welcomed
Sinn Féin said the result of the marriage referendum represents the lifting of discrimination against the gay community in the rest of the island of Ireland. Daithí McKay MLA is also calling for the same rights to be extended to Northern Ireland.