Dan Boyle (Cork South Central, Green Party)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Question 35: To ask the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the timetable for the introduction of his proposed legislative change to allow for civil partnership arrangements for same-sex couples; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3571/06]

Michael McDowell (Dublin South East, Progressive Democrats)
Link to this: Individually | In context

As indicated by the Taoiseach on 24 January 2006 at the launch of the All-Party Oireachtas Committee on the Constitution Report on the Family, I am in the process of establishing a working group to prepare an options paper on civil partnership. The group will consider the categories of partnerships and relationships outside of marriage, including same-sex couples, to which legal recognition can be afforded, consistent with constitutional provisions. The report of the All-Party Oireachtas Committee as well as the deliberations of the Law Reform Commission will inform the work of the group. I am confident that the group will assist in the early formulation of legislative policy in this area. Its terms of reference and a timetable are being finalised.