Seanad debates

Thursday, 3 June 2010

11:00 am

Photo of John Gerard HanafinJohn Gerard Hanafin (Fianna Fail)

I understand the precedent but it would not be correct of me as a student of history not to note with great pleasure and joy that Dr. Paisley and his lady wife are in the Distinguished Visitors Gallery. It is indeed a historic occasion.

I call for a debate on the matter raised by Senators Ó Murchú and Walsh on the rights of people who will find themselves in extreme and difficult circumstances should the Civil Partnership Bill pass. The reality is there are people like myself who have difficulty with the Bill. As chairman of the Green Party and someone very much involved in the programme for Government, I ask the Deputy Leader again for a referendum such that the question can go to the people. Does the public seek a situation whereby a same-sex, sexual relationship has a higher standing in law than that of brothers, sisters, brothers and sisters or friends who live together in an ordinary way? Should such a relationship be put on a higher plain? I do not believe it should be nor do I believe that anyone who feels the same as I do should be discriminated against for that belief. With this in mind, I ask again for a referendum and, in particular, for a free vote when the situation comes to this House.

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