Kevin Humphreys (Dublin South East, Labour) | Oireachtas source

In light of the outcome in the marriage equality referendum, I had intended to bring amendments forward on Committee Stage which would remove this requirement. The necessary amendments have been prepared by the Department and the Office of the Parliamentary Counsel. The committee would be aware, however, that the legal challenge to the outcome of the referendum is under consideration by the Court of Appeal and I understand it will take place on 29 June. The result of the referendum cannot be certified so the committee will understand that I am constrained from bringing amendments at this stage. Also, it would be inappropriate to presume the outcome of the court proceedings.

I intend to bring the appropriate amendments forward on Report Stage if the outcome of the court proceedings allows the result of the referendum to be formally certified. The following is where I ask for the co-operation of the committee. As Report Stage had been scheduled for next Tuesday, 23 June, then I wish to provisionally schedule it to take place on Thursday, 9 July which puts us right up against it in terms of time. I cannot publish the amendments until a decision is taken by the courts which may not give the committee ample time.