2 February 2006

Justice

Timetable for Civil Partnership Legislation

Ciarán Cuffe asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the timetable for the introduction of his proposed legislative change to allow  for civil partnership arrangements for same-sex couples; and if he will make a statement on the matter. 

Minister For Justice, Equality and Law Reform:  As indicated by the Taoiseach on 24 January 2006 at the launch of the All-Party Oireachtas Committee on the Constitution Report on the Family, I am in the process of establishing a Working Group to prepare an Options Paper on Civil Partnership.  The Group will consider the categories of partnerships and relationships outside of marriage, including same-sex couples, to which legal recognition can be afforded, consistent with Constitutional provisions.  The Report of the All-Party Oireachtas Committee as well as the deliberations of the Law Reform Commission will inform the work of the Group.  I am confident that the Group will assist in the early formulation of legislative policy in this area.  Its terms of reference and a timetable are being finalised.