Marriage Equality welcomes Tanaiste's call for referendum

13 Nov 2012

Today, Marriage Equality welcomed a call by Tánaiste Eamon Gilmore for a referendum on the issue of marriage equality for same sex couples. The Tánaiste was speaking on RTE's Morning Ireland programme, and said he "[didn't] believe we should postpone what is a human right". The upcoming Constitutional Convention - due to start work in December - will be looking at marriage equality among other issues, and may recommend a referendum to enshrine the issue in the Constitution.

"Now is the time for marriage equality, and we want Ireland to lead this movement for equality along with countries like Spain and Portugal, and not fall behind," said Marriage Equality Director Moninne Griffith. "We are delighted to have the continued support of the Tánaiste as we continue our campaign for equality for same sex couples, our families and our children."

Last night also saw councillors in Dun Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council voting to support marriage equality, with a clear majority voting in favour of the motion. The council joins a growing number of other councils across Ireland including Cork, Dublin and Waterford City Councils, Castlebar, Mullingar and Ardee Town council, as well as South Dublin, Louth and Fingal County Councils.

"Public support for marriage equality amongst Irish people is at 73% today," added Ms Griffith. "Irish people want this. Ireland is ready, with a strong majority of people who think same sex couples should have the right to marry the person they love. The Constitutional Convention is a huge opportunity for us as a country to take the next step as a modern, democratic country that has respect for diversity and that believes in equality. This is our chance to be leaders when it comes to equality for all, and to enshrine essential Irish values of justice, equality, fairness, and respect for all citizens in the Constitution."