Michael McNamara (Clare, Independent) | Oireachtas source

It is one thing to say it will not have an impact but I struggle to see how recognising durable relationships will not have an impact regarding polygamous marriages, regardless of whether we recognise them as marriages for Irish purposes. It is difficult to envisage how we would not recognise them as durable relationships in the countries of origin. It may be that we are going to make a very clear legal distinction whereby we will recognise what are durable relationships in the country of origin, with family bonds built up, and suddenly not recognise them when those involved are in Ireland, with the State not striving to support those involved in living together. I think that is the wording the Minister is advancing. I am curious to know whether the Minister is adamant that there will not be any impact whatsoever on the recognition of polygamous marriages, or at least the right of persons in a polygamous marriage to subsequent family reunification. I am referring to the basis on which he says that. I await and look forward to his response.

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