July 9th, 2010
The civil unions bill in Ireland has now passed the upper house.
From Pink News
The bill, which grants almost all of the rights of marriage, passed in the Dail last week and was approved in the Seanad last night after two days of debate.
It passed with the support of 48 senators, with just four voting against, and will be sent to President Mary McAleese, who can approve it or refer it to the Supreme Court if she believes it may be unconstitutional.
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Mark
July 9th, 2010
Interesting, this is not too radical and extreme for 95% Catholic Ireland, but it is for Hawaii.
CanuckJacq
July 9th, 2010
The really interesting thing is that recent polls have put support for gay marriage at over 50%… support for civil unions was almost universal. Even the Irish evangelical group had publicly supported the move.
However, the only reason it was put on the table was because of some serious maneuvering on the part of the Green party.
Greg
July 10th, 2010
The bill does not include immigration rights. My partner is Irish, I’m American, and although we’re both ready to move to Ireland, he can’t sponsor me there through this bill.
Christine
July 13th, 2010
Is this why Alan Chambers (and others) went to Ireland recently – to prevent passage of this legislation?
Shardonay
July 19th, 2010
It’s good to see progress being made in Ireland, regardless of how shaky. Every bit helps. I’ve taken more of an interest in LGBT rights after seeing OURscene’s political video, part of their pride coverage. It’s pretty cool; here’s the link if any of you folks are interested: http://www.ourscenetv.com/posts/415/news-politics-pride
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