Referendum is about love

I am writing in response to Paddy Monaghan’s letter (Irish Examnier, April 21) in which he criticises Ms McAleese’s stance based on the fact that it is in opposition to the views of some churches in Ireland. 

The referendum deals with civil and not religious marriage and it will therefore not effect the Church.

Marriage equality also in no way detracts from the ‘fundamental right of a man and woman to found a family’. Despite Mr Monaghan’s claims, this referendum is not about adoption or surrogacy. These complex issues are being dealt with in legislation. They are not part of this referendum and should not form any part of the debate. The referendum question relates to the issue of loving and committed same-sex couples having the right to civil marriage.