The Programme for Government contains a commitment to legislate to ban conversion therapy. The National LGBTI Youth Strategy 2018 – 2020 and the National LGBTI+ Inclusion Strategy 2019 – 2021 contain commitments in relation to conversion therapy. The LGBTI+ National Youth Strategy provides for the prohibition of “the promotion or practice of conversion therapy by health professionals in Ireland” and the National LGBTI+ Inclusion Strategy commits to investigating conversion therapy in Ireland and following up with appropriate counter measures.
The Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth commissioned research into the issue of conversion therapy in Ireland. The multi-phased mixed-methodology research was carried out by Trinity College Dublin (TCD), School of Nursing and Midwifery, and a report of the findings was published in February 2023. The research provides an insight into how conversion therapy practices operate in Ireland. It also includes an examination of the growing body of recent international research literature in the area. The findings of the research, which mirror findings in international research on the matter, indicate that conversion therapy practices take place in Ireland, and has developed an understanding of how these practices operate. It confirms the harm that is inflicted on those who experience such practices.
Policy deliberations have been informed by a broad range of factors including but not limited to the TCD research, international research and an analysis of legislation in other jurisdictions. My Department is examining international best practice and continues to engage with relevant Government Departments on the matter to inform the legislative proposals.
Given the potential complex and sensitive nature of the proposed legislation, the Government is carefully considering the underpinning policy matters to ensure that vulnerable members of society are protected from these harmful practices and that necessary and appropriate services for those with concerns in areas of sexual orientation and gender identity are not affected. Work on the plan to draft legislation is ongoing and is a priority for Government this year. It is planned that legislative proposals will be brought forward shortly, informed by this research and international best practice.
