Seán Power (Kildare South, Fianna Fail)

If I could conclude, one need not be gay or lesbian to appreciate the importance of the necessity to introduce legislation for civil partnerships. It is a basic human right. I know what it would mean to many couples throughout this country for the State to recognise the positions in which they find themselves and the relationships which they are enjoying at present, but the Government has given a commitment to bring forward the necessary legislation and I will play my role as Minister of State for equality to ensure that commitment is honoured.

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