Jennifer Murnane O'Connor (Carlow-Kilkenny, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

It is important that we have this debate today. I thank the citizens' assembly for its work. The language of Article 41 of the Constitution serves to limit the concept of the family to the marital family and does not reflect the reality of modern society. The proposed amendment aims to update our Constitution in this regard so that it reflects and recognises families in Ireland in a more inclusive way. In doing so, it responds to the recommendations of the citizens' assembly and the joint committee.

The proposed inclusion of the wording "whether founded on marriage or on other durable relationships" aims to make it clear in our Constitution that the family extends beyond the marital family to include other lasting and committed relationships such as one-parent families and cohabiting couples and their children. We need to reflect modern Ireland and modern families and this is one way we can do so.

I believe the proposed amendment builds on previous reforms to our Constitution such as that relating to children's rights and marriage equality and reflects our journey towards a more compassionate, inclusive and equal society. We are in a changing world. Men and women are equal and rightly so. The Constitution is a journey towards a compassionate, inclusive and equal society and if we can get this right, and I believe we will, this will bring about huge changes for the women of Ireland, which is so important.

A proper communications campaign with proper information needs to be looked at. Over the years, there were times where we did not communicate enough so I would ask that this be done. I welcome this but it is important to highlight the need for information around the practical effects of the proposed family amendment. These may have significant implications for law and policy in a number of areas. I would like some answers on that. Perhaps that could be looked at. Again, I welcome this. Anything we do to have a more equal society is really important and I believe this is a good way forward.

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