Finian McGrath (Dublin North Central, Independent) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Minister for trying to facilitate me with speaking time but I believe Standing Orders overruled both of us. I am grateful for this opportunity to speak on the third report of the Constitutional Convention on same-sex marriage. I warmly welcome the report as it is important to build and develop a new society based on equality and respect for all citizens. It is also an opportunity to start a process of building a new and inclusive Ireland and about enjoying and celebrating difference and diversity. We all need to work hard on the reform agenda and what we all promised at the last general election. I want to stand up for a new and changed Ireland which respects all of our citizens and puts equality at the heart of the country and the Constitution. This is what the debate is about. I urge all Deputies to support the recommendations of the report. It is very progressive and I warmly welcome it.

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