Michael Mullins (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I join colleagues in congratulating the Minister for Justice and Equality, Deputy Frances Fitzgerald, on steering through the House this very important legislation which will enact the will of the people as expressed very strongly in the recent referendum. I also congratulate those who campaigned for marriage equality. Others have spoken about historic legislation and I hope this historic Bill brings lots of happiness to many people in this country. I hope it makes life easier for our gay and lesbian community and makes them feel more included in our society. I also hope that the prejudice against them will diminish. I congratulate in particular my Oireachtas colleagues and wish them well. I know this means an awful lot to many of them who have campaigned for many years on this issue. I will not name names. This is an historic day and I wish lots of happiness to those for whom this legislation means so much.