Enda Kenny (Mayo, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I thank Deputy Murphy for his comments. I was very happy to see the extent of the result of the referendum on Friday in respect of the equality of marriage. This was an extraordinary result, driven by the conviction, belief and enjoyment of so many new people involved in politics. It demonstrates the importance of politics, the power of the vote and the influence of people driven by a sense of belief and conviction for change. This is heartening and encouraging for the thousands of people of the gay community who now stand with equal status in terms of civil marriage with all other people in the country. This big message from a small country has now gone out worldwide.

There are changes being examined and considered in respect of the equality legislation in regard to the issues mentioned. With regard to the repeal of the eighth amendment of the Constitution, I do not believe this House should be rushed into a situation that is as sensitive and personal as elements of fatal foetal abnormalities and other issues. I know an Oireachtas committee is considering hearings in the late autumn in respect of this matter. The difference between this and the referendum is that in respect of the referendum on the equality of marriage, people were able to point out exactly what the consequences would be - that if the referendum was passed, this would be the situation that would apply in law. Believe me, from experience over many years, it is not possible to be as clear in respect of a concept of changing the eighth amendment of the Constitution.

For that reason, the excitement of change created by the vote of the people, and it was the Government that decided to put the referendum to the people by popular vote, is an entirely different matter. We are talking about an issue that is not as clear or as simple as it might sound. The referendum on marriage equality and rights for gay and lesbian people was about living, love, commitment and dedication. A repeal of the eighth amendment of the Constitution, empathising with the very many tragic stories I have heard, deals with other elements that are not clear at all. I will not be rushed into considering these matters because we had a referendum last weekend that was very positive. This requires the most careful consideration by whoever is elected to the House here in the next Administration.

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