Maurice Cummins (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

Senators Bacik and Norris welcomed the Thirty-Fourth Amendment of the Constitution Bill.

As Senator Norris indicated, the Government approved the wording yesterday. That wording runs to the effect that "Marriage may be contracted in accordance with law by two persons without distinction as to their sex". The referendum is about equality, extending the equal right to marry to all couples and removing the barriers which deny some couples the opportunity to marry and have relationships that are constitutionally protected. The proposal to be put before the people will not in any way affect the current constitutional position regarding marriage. I agree with Senator Norris in respect of opinion polls showing an 80-20 split among people on this issue. I do not believe the final outcome will be anything like that. A very strong campaign is going to have to be fought - I am sure this will be the case - on both sides. I am of the view that the proposal is a very worthy one and we will have ample opportunity to discuss the Bill when it comes before the House.

Senators Bacik and Moloney welcomed the appointment of Patricia King as the new president of the Irish Congress of Trade Unions, ICTU. I am sure we all wish Ms King well.

I accept the amendment to the Order of Business proposed by Senator Barrett, namely, that No. 14 be taken before No. 1. We look forward to discussing the Senator's Bill next week.

Senators White, Reilly and-----