27/06/2008

Civil Partnership Bill Opposed By Fianna Fail Senator

A Wexford-based Senator is leading a campaign to ensure a Bill to introduce civil partnerships does not go ahead.

Led by Jim Walsh, up to 30 members of the Fianna Fail parliamentary party have reportedly signed a motion to reverse the Government's decision to allow gay and lesbian couples register their relationships with the State.

Justice Minister Dermot Ahern has announced his intention to introduce a Civil Partnership Bill, which would give registered gay couples some of the same rights as married couples.

However, despite being welcomed by gay rights groups as well as many of the other political parties, some believe the controversial legislation does not go far enough.

Green Party Justice Spokesperson Ciarán Cuffe TD has welcomed the bill, but said: "We accept that the civil partnership bill bestows limited rights and will not satisfy everyone.

“While the Green Party remains committed to marriage equality for all, in light of our present strength in the Dáil and in Government we believe that legislating now for civil partnerships provides the best means of recognising and protecting same-sex relationships.

"This is not the full equality we are seeking, but it is a step towards full equality."

While gay rights group, MarriagEquality, said that proposed legislation published yesterday will leave the children of lesbian and gay parents "in limbo," with no constitutional or legal recognition, or protection.

A spokesperson for the group said: "Civil partnership is being dubbed as 'marriage-like', but marriage entitlements afforded to heterosexual couples will be denied to lesbian and gay couples under the proposed scheme.

"The human right to marry must be extended to lesbian and gay couples now.”

(DW)

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