Referendum funds ‘better spent on HIV tests’

A controversial senator, who quit Fianna Fáil over his opposition to adoption by same-sex couples, has claimed some gay people believe marriage equality funding would be better spent on HIV tests for the community.

Independent senator Jim Walsh made the remarks yesterday during a Seanad debate on whether to lower the age someone can run for president.

The Wexford-based senator said he had been told by “a gay man over the weekend” that the marriage equality and presidential age votes —which will be held on May 22 — will cost the State €21m.