Let’s vote for basic civil rights for all in Ireland

I write this letter in response to a previous objection to same-sex marriage.

As a student nearing the end of my secondary school career, I face this issue not as a prospective voter but a citizen of this country.

Our Constitution has been in operation since 1937, but I believe it is necessary to make changes that are more applicable to today’s society. I believe that giving everyone equal protection, not dependent on their sexual affiliation, is only just. It will not lead to a decline in the nation’s morality.

As the voting day looms, numerous stories are creeping their way into the media trying to distort the image of same-sex marriage and make it into something else.

People are trying to distract voters from the facts. The fact is we cannot continue to call ourselves a democratic state, when we deny our citizens a basic civil right.

I think I can speak for a majority of young people when I say the issue of same-sex marriage will not end with this referendum.

Times are changing, and our generation is prepared to change with them so in the future we can live in a country that upholds true liberal values for both men and women. Equally.

Christina O’Donovan

Bandon

Cork