Referendum on Marriage Equality

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 9 July 2013

Tuesday, 9 July 2013

Questions (421, 422, 430)

Finian McGrath

Question:

421. Deputy Finian McGrath asked the Minister for Justice and Equality if he will support marriage equality and a date for a referendum. [33130/13]

Nicky McFadden

Question:

422. Deputy Nicky McFadden asked the Minister for Justice and Equality when a referendum on the issue of marriage equality will take place; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33144/13]

Clare Daly

Question:

430. Deputy Clare Daly asked the Minister for Justice and Equality when he proposes to bring forward a referendum to deal with marriage equality. [33367/13]

Written answers

Minister for Justice and Equality

I propose to take Questions Nos. 421, 422 and 430 together.

I am aware that the Convention on the Constitution published its third report, on its recommendation in relation to amending the Constitution to provide for same-sex marriage, on 2 July 2013. Following receipt of the Convention's reports by the Oireachtas, the Government has four months in which to respond to any recommendations in them, including saying whether it intends to hold a referendum on the matter, and, if so, giving a timeframe for the referendum. The referendum and its timing will be considered as part of the overall consideration by the Government of the third report.