FF Senator leads campaign against Civil Partnership Bill

Up to 30 members of the Fianna Fáil parliamentary party have reportedly signed a motion to reverse the Government's decision to allow gay and lesbian couples register their relationships with the State.

Justice Minister Dermot Ahern has announced his intention to introduce a Civil Partnership Bill which would give registered gay couples some of the same rights as married couples.

It would not, however, allow for gay marriages.

Despite this, reports this morning say Wexford-based Senator Jim Walsh is leading a campaign to ensure that the legislation does not dilute the "special status" of heterosexual marriage under the Constitution.