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Ahern pledges gay couples will be allowed to marry in Ireland soon
 Taoiseach
Bertie Ahern has pledged the government will pass laws as soon as possible
to allow gay couples to marry in Ireland.
Mr Ahern insisted the new ruling coalition was committed to providing
full equality to same-sex couples in society.
The Taoiseach was speaking as he re-opened the refurbished Outhouse community
centre in central Dublin following two arson attacks.
He said: “This government is committed to providing a more supportive
and secure legal environment for same-sex couples.”
“We will legislate for civil partnerships at the earliest possible
date in the lifetime of this government.”
The Outhouse complex contains a cafe, library and office space for 70
groups working on lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender issues.
It receives more than 25,000 visitors annually.
Outhouse manager Louise Tierney said the lack of recognition of gay relationships
was discriminatory and called for immediate action.
She said: “The lack of recognition of same-sex relationships is
a barrier to real equality.”
“It engenders discrimination and puts gay people at a distinct disadvantage
when it comes to basic rights around inheritance.”
“The 30th Dáil should prioritise legislative reform to allow
for recognition of gay partnerships.”
“While we would like to see such reform within the coming year it
would be unacceptable if it did not take place within the lifetime of
this Dáil.”
She said elderly gay people were reluctant to engage with elder care health
services and community care because of a fear of discrimination.
She also called for resources to set-up a crèche in Outhouse to
allow gay parents to go out to work. |
