Seanad debates

Friday, 27 March 2015

An Bille um an gCeathrú Leasú is Tríocha ar an mBunreacht (Comhionannas Pósta) 2015: Céim an Choiste - Thirty-fourth Amendment of the Constitution (Marriage Equality) Bill 2015: Committee Stage

 

10:30 am

Photo of Aideen HaydenAideen Hayden (Labour) | Oireachtas source

I oppose this amendment. I would like to concur with the views that have been just expressed by Senator Zappone. I think the Title of this Bill could not be more appropriate. What is this Bill about? What is this referendum about? They are about giving equality of access to the institution of marriage. At the moment, we do not have equality of access to the institution of marriage. It is very clear and straightforward. I believe it states the case as it ought to be stated.

I agree with Senator Zappone that there is a further issue around equality. It is a fact that special protection is given to the family based on the institution of marriage. Obviously, there are many families that come outside that definition. Indeed, the children of gay and lesbian couples fall out that particular special status. As a member of the Constitutional Convention, I was deeply struck by many of the presentations that were made, particularly by the children of a gay and lesbian couple. I would like us to revisit in the future the whole issue of the special status of the family based on marriage because I think it excludes other people who are not married. I sincerely hope this referendum passes when it goes to the people in May. I do not believe we can be complacent on it. If it is passed, I believe protection will be then afforded to the children of gay and lesbian couples. I want that protection to be afforded to families who are non-marital families - single people, for the sake of argument. I believe we will have to revisit the definition of family.

I will conclude by saying I do not believe I have ever heard such disrespect for a Minister in this House. It has been suggested that a Minister has been using the resources of her office to delude the Irish people into making a decision on the basis of fraud. I have never heard such disrespect in this House. I have never heard such deep-seated contempt for the intelligence of the Irish people. I will conclude by emphasising that the Labour Party is consistent and is proud of its history in relation to the marriage equality issue.

Comments

No comments

Log in or join to post a public comment.