Tony Gregory (Dublin Central, Independent)

In the two minutes available to me, I wish to put on record my unequivocal support for the Civil Unions Bill, as it is a matter of civil and human rights. The Bill is a simple measure that, if accepted, would advance equality by providing for the recognition and legal registration of civil unions.

It is the first time such a Bill has been debated in the Dáil, but it follows on the initiative of that great and courageous campaigner, Senator Norris, who introduced his own Bill in the Seanad to advance the issue. This Bill provides that parties to a civil union are responsible for supporting each other to the same extent and in the same way as is provided by law for married persons. Put simply, the Bill would apply the detail of existing family law to civil union relationships.

The Bill is concerned with respect for individual choice, which is surely the essence of equality. The vast majority of citizens would be ready to support this measure, but, regrettably, the Fianna Fáil-Progressive Democrats Government does not have the courage to allow it to progress.

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