Challenges to referendum result - The people have spoken clearly

OVER the last week or so we have seen the High Court play a very hands-on role in our public affairs, so much so that national media organisations — RTÉ and The Irish Times — had to go to the court to have decisions clarified so they could publish reports of the Dáil proceedings without fear.

Though this, in hindsight, seems bizarre, the High Court will today hear two applications challenging the result of last month’s marriage equality referendum.

One brought against Ireland and the attorney general, the referendum returning officer, and the Referendum Commission, includes a claim that the referendum process was not fair or impartial in relation to monies spent. The other will argue the proposed amendment conflicts with the centrality of the Christian ethos of the Constitution.

At this point, it might be wise to recall the figures. The amendment to the Constitution allowing same-sex marriage was supported by 1,201,607m people — 62.07% of those who voted — while 734,300 people — 37.93% — voted against it. The Government has announced that it will fast-track legislation to allow for same-sex marriage by early autumn.

Every citizen of this Republic is entitled to the full support and protection of our courts. Every citizen of this Republic is entitled to test new legislation in our courts, and are entitled to expect an objective and reliable hearing. The people have, however, expressed their will through the ballot box.