James Reilly (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

As others pointed out, this is an important anniversary in the coming to maturity of a nation. I cannot let this pass without mentioning people I believe have been hugely influential, some of whom are in this Chamber with us today. Ms Máire Geoghegan-Quinn's push to decriminalise what was clearly an archaic law that did huge damage to so many of our citizens was a major step forward and it allowed much that followed. It was a law that punished people for being who they were and criminalised the very essence of self. It is something we all look back on with a degree of shame.

Let us focus now on the positive and all the good that has come since then, with Irish people having voted in the marriage referendum for equality. I mention my colleague, Senator Norris, and all the work he did over the years. He was outspoken and very brave in leading a charge and giving others courage.