Darragh O'Brien (Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I welcome the Minister for Justice and Equality, Deputy Fitzgerald, to the Seanad on this very important and historic day for Seanad Éireann. I thank the Minister for her detailed contribution in outlining the Bill. On behalf of my own party, it is personally a great honour and a pleasure for me to formally support this Bill on Second Stage in the Seanad.

The referendum was an example of how civic society and the country outside of politics - but with politics involved - could come together. I believe on the eve of the 100th anniversary of the Rising, when we look at the fundamental principles of equality and fairness of many of the men and women of that time, one would be that all our children would be treated equally, regardless of gender. It is fitting, coming into that important centenary next year, that Ireland will have joined 19 other countries across the world by being the first by popular vote to acclaim everyone in this country, regardless of gender, and that someone should not be excluded from entering into marriage on the basis of gender.

I am a married man. I have been married for eight years. While it took my wife a long time to convince me to get up the aisle, or maybe it was the other way around, I have friends who have been precluded from getting married. In a modern society the fairness of the Irish people shone through during the campaign and referendum and now people will be able to make their choice should they wish to be married or not.

On a day like today I pay particular tribute to Senator David Norris, my colleague and great friend. When I was in school and coming up through the ranks in political life, David was a colourful figure but also an important figure here in the Oireachtas. He stood out in the Oireachtas in fighting for equality for people who are lesbian and gay. Through his hard work and endeavour he also fought for many others who were marginalised in society. In many ways I am sure he felt he was on his own, but Senator Norris really shone a light for the rest of us at a time when it was not popular to do so. Today, after such a long battle, I thank him for all that he has done. I understand he is a shy and retiring individual-----