Marriage Equality echoes calls for politicians to heed public opinion and end discrimination

10 Aug 2011

Marriage Equality today welcomed comments from Equality Authority chair Angela Kerins, who suggested that politicians are out of touch with public opinion on the issue of marriage equality at the launch of the Equality Authority's Annual Report yesterday.

"We are delighted to have the support of the Equality Authority as we continue the fight for marriage equality," said Grainne Healy, Chair of Marriage Equality. "Public support for marriage equality is at the highest level in years - 73% in a Red C poll taken earlier this year. A further survey showed 67% of same sex couples based their vote in the General Election on a political party's position on marriage equality. We want to make sure the Government reflects public opinion in its actions."

Marriage Equality recently relaunched its Out To Your TD campaign, which calls on supporters to visit their TDs, share their stories and demand an end to discrimination and inequality by treating same-sex couples and families equally to heterosexual couples and families. Between June 2008 and January 2010 Marriage Equality volunteers and supporters contacted nearly half of all TDs in Dail Eireann. This led to an informed debate on civil partnership legislation, and ensured that commitments to full equality were included in many party manifestos during the 2011 General Election.

"With a large number of new TDs entering the Dail after the recent election, the relaunch of our Out To Your TD campaign aims to clear up any misconceptions these new TDs may have around Civil Partnership and civil marriage," added Ms Healy. "Some may believe that equality has been achieved with the Civil Partnership Act, and that's just not the case. Discrimination still exists, and we need TDs and Senators to listen to their constituents and public opinion, and commit to equality for same sex couples, our families and our children in the lifetime of the 31st Dail."

The Equality Authority has also raised particular concerns that all families should be treated equally under the law, and should reflect the diversity of modern society. Marriage Equality's forthcoming Marriage Audit identifies over 140 discrepancies between Civil Partnership and marriage - the vast majority affecting children and families.

Note:

1. Out To Your TD campaign materials are available to download (PDF format) from
http://www.marriagequality.ie/getinvolved/tdcampaign/downloadtdpack.html