Sign in. It’s quick, free and it’s up to you.
An account is an optional way to support the work we do. Find out more.
Photocall/Mark Stedman
referendum 2015
Together at last? Big four political parties come together over gay marriage issue
The Cork Pride Festival will host a discussion on how to pass the gay marriage referendum next spring.
REPRESENTATIVES FROM IRELAND’S four biggest political parties shall speak at an event in support of marriage equality later today.
‘How to win a referendum’, part of Cork Pride Festival 2014, shall hear from leader of Fianna Fáil Micheál Martin, Labour Minister of State Kathleen Lynch, Fine Gael TD Jerry Buttimer and, Sinn Féin’s Liada Ní Riada.
The focus of the event shall be what needs to be done in order to win the referendum on gay marriage next year. Also speaking at the event shall be political columnist and analyst, Noel Whelan.
Speaking to TheJournal.ie about the event, Jerry Buttimer said: ”I would say that the referendum will be about all citizens from civic society, it is about telling a story about how we can grow into an inclusive and equal Ireland.”
The meeting on Monday night is about how we build a winning coalition, but it will be the voice of the people on the street who will win this referendum… people must not make the mistake of thinking political parties will win it for us.
Speaking earlier this month, Taoiseach Enda Kenny said that while an exact date is yet to be set, a referendum on the issue would take place in Spring next year. Speaking during Order of Business, Kenny said:
The referendum will be in spring of next year. We haven’t named a date yet…there are a number of other legal issues that need to be dealt with, including elements of adoption which are necessary.
A Red C poll conducted in November last year found that 76% of voters would support the same sex marriage referendum.
have your say