| | | | | | | AHERNE TO MEET TDs OVER BILL ON PARTNERSHIP | | Reproduced from Irish Times Article | | | | 3rd December 2009 | | | | | Minister for Justice Dermot Aherne is due to meet Fianna Fail TDs and Senators concerned about the Civil Partnership Bill before it is introduced to the Dail later today writes Mary Minihan.
The proposed legislation would convey civil status on the register of partnerships of co-habiting heterosexual and same sex couples.
Attempts have been made to resolve differences within Fianna Fail on the Bill and this morning’s meeting has been organized by Wexford TD Sean Connick Chairman of the Parties Justice Policy Committee.
The Greens Justice Spokesman Ciaran Cuffe has said he was firmly opposed to a “Freedom of Conscience” Amendment, understood to be favoured by some within the parties coalition partners, Fianna Fail.
I am aware of calls for a freedom of conscience amendment to be stitched into the legislation to give people a religious “opt out” in providing everyday goods and services to gay couples, Mr Cuffe said.
Mr Cuffe described the Bill as a key legislative priority for the Greens in Government.
Fianna Fail Senator Jim Walsh has said “Freedom of conscience for people must be recognised and allowed for” while Dublin South East TD Chris Andrews has said he hoped the Bill would be passed without amendments. | | | | |  For further information, please contact Marion Campbell Solicitors by calling (01) 475 9345, or by filling out an on-line enquiry form. |
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