The decision by Cabinet today to commit to a referendum on same-sex marriage in 2015 is one of huge significance which marks another step towards full equality for gay and lesbian people, according to Labour TD Aodhán Ó Ríordáin.
“I am proud of the Labour Party’s record of supporting same-sex couples and the steps taken to advance the rights of these couples over the last number of years.
“Labour have been a driving force behind the campaign to allow gay couples the respect and dignity that they deserve. From our support for the decriminalisation of homosexuality in the 1990s through to today, we have never shied away from doing what is right.
“However, this journey is not over, all of us on the yes side must now come together and work hard to ensure its passage in 2015.
“Those opposed to equality will do their best to confuse and distort the arguments so it is essential that we remain true to the central argument in this campaign, which is that gay and lesbian people should be entitled to offer their partners the love and protection that they need and deserve.
“I look forward to uniting with people from all groups and parties who support marriage equality to deliver this message to voters.”