Pearse Doherty (Sinn Fein)

The current law contains an exemption which allows such institutions to discriminate on the basis of a person's sexual orientation or family status. This is unacceptable particularly in publicly-funded schools in the 21st century. The exemption means that even if the Government introduces a civil partnership Bill, it would be useless for many gay and lesbian teachers who would be afraid to enter into a civil partnership because it might mean losing their jobs. If the Government wants to demonstrate a genuine commitment to equality it cannot continue to tolerate a situation where gay and lesbian teachers can be effectively barred from employment in more than 90% of the State's schools, or forced to lead a double life, under so-called equality legislation.

While Sinn Féin supports the right to civil partnership, it should not be seen as a substitute for the right to marry. Full equality for gays and lesbians will be achieved only when same-sex couples can enter into either civil partnerships or marriages, according to their own choice. I urge the Government parties to stop dithering and making up excuses. They should support the motion to introduce legislation immediately in the interest of basic equality and human rights for the gay and lesbian community.