Advertisement

We need your help now

Support from readers like you keeps The Journal open.

You are visiting us because we have something you value. Independent, unbiased news that tells the truth. Advertising revenue goes some way to support our mission, but this year it has not been enough.

If you've seen value in our reporting, please contribute what you can, so we can continue to produce accurate and meaningful journalism. For everyone who needs it.

Same-Sex Marriage

‘We’ve come a long way in this country’ – Cabinet to discuss same-sex marriage

The issue of a referendum on legalising same-sex marriage will be discussed by Cabinet ministers today with the timing of the vote likely to be one of the main issues.

Updated 9.48am

THE CABINET WILL meet this morning to consider a referendum on same-sex marriage with one minister saying that a vote will be held “when it’s practicable”.

Public Expenditure and Reform Minister Brendan Howlin said this morning that it is probably the view of the “majority of Cabinet” that a referendum should be held on foot of the recommendation from the Constitutional Convention earlier this year.

He noted that there are issues of timing but said that advice will be given to Cabinet on that issue this morning with Justice Minister Alan Shatter to bring a memo before his colleagues.

“All of these issues are challenging, but we’ve come a long way in this country,” he said, noting that civil partnerships legislation was passed through second stage of the Dáil without a vote.

A short time later, the Tánaiste Eamon Gilmore said he hoped that a referendum would be held in the lifetime of this government, describing it as “an important issue”:

Videos: Nicky Ryan at Government Buildings

First published 8.43am

Labour MEPs: Gay marriage vote should be on same day as local and Euro elections

Varadkar: Same-sex marriage referendum could be held next year

Your Voice
Readers Comments
118
    Submit a report
    Please help us understand how this comment violates our community guidelines.
    Thank you for the feedback
    Your feedback has been sent to our team for review.