Civil Unions

Posted by Keith Martin on April 09, 2009 at 02:53 PM

Unfortunately today, yet again, the Government has let another deadline slip past without publishing a Civil Unions Bill.

The Labour Party has put Civil Union Bills to the Dáil twice in the last three years. Both of these have been rejected on the basis that the Government would propose its own Bill. The Government Chief Whip promised the introduction of a Bill by last October. We are still waiting. On 26th January this year, Pat Carey promised the introduction of a Bill by today (April 9th). It appears we are going to have to wait even longer. The Government's excuses and delay tactics show that they have no intention of recognising the equal rights of same-sex couples.

In 2009, it is nothing short of a disgrace that same-sex couples are still not afforded equal recognition and legal protection. Today's failure is a denial of thousands of citizens' right to equality under the law. A Civil Union Bill would guarantee same sex couples the legal equality they deserve. It would allow the loving relationships of all citizens to be recognised. People should not fear that they will be unable to visit their partner in hospital because of legal red tape. It would afford thousands of our fellow citizens essential legal protection and help bring an end to discrimination based on sexual orientation.

We cannot wait any longer. A right delayed is a right denied. If elected to the European parliament I will do my utmost to end this wait once and for all and fight for equal rights for same-sex couples.

Permanent link | Comments (0) | Categories: Equality • Justice • Social & Family Affairs • Civil Unions • civil unions • nessa childers