Call to legalise same-sex unions

CIVIL partnership for same-sex couples is now a matter of “practical and immediate urgency” for lesbian and gay couples, according to the Gay and Lesbian Equality Network.

The network’s annual report, launched yesterday by Justice, Equality and Law Reform Minister Dermot Ahern, details “considerable progress” made for lesbian and gay people of all ages in Irish society over the past year.

However, it also says that significant challenges remain.

An important step cited by GLEN chairman, Kieran Rose, was the Government’s publication of the “heads of bill” for comprehensive civil partnership for same-sex couples.

Other positive developments, he noted, included measures to support safe and inclusive access to education by young lesbian and gay people; along with “significant work” by gardaí to promote safety; and moves to support lesbian and gay people in health and community development.

“GLEN is working towards a society where being lesbian or gay is unremarkable, where a young person can come to terms with their sexuality and have all the support they need. Where the children of same-sex couples have full legal protection,” said Mr Rose.

* www.glen.ie