Gerard Craughwell (Independent) | Oireachtas source

I hope Senator Ahearn will forgive me but Castlebar, the home of my mother, was noted today as the best town in Ireland for work-life balance. As a west of Ireland man, I am delighted to note there is such a place outside County Tipperary, although I am sorry to have to inform Senator Ahearn of that fact.

The referendums that will take place on 8 March are causing me a great deal of concern. I refer to the misinformation that is being put out. For example, the Minister, Deputy O'Gorman, is on record in The Irish Timesas saying that if we vote "No", women's career and employment opportunities will be limited. The National Women's Council of Ireland has stated that an oppressive Government would see women confined to the home and their careers and employment prospects limited. This is not good enough. We must abide by the McKenna judgment. Is the Government usurping the McKenna judgment by using NGOs to put out the message for a "Yes" vote? We need clear and honest information. As regards Article 41.1.1°, it is clear that if the amendment is passed, marriage will be given a place different from that given to those in a durable relationship.