ILGA-Europe: Irish people overwhelmingly approve marriage equality

On 22 May 2015, the Irish voters overwhelmingly supported a constitutional amendment introducing marriage equality for all.

ILGA-Europe wholeheartedly congratulates Ireland for this momentous vote in favour of equality, dignity and respect for all families.

Paulo Côrte-Real, Co-Chair of ILGA-Europe’s Executive Board, said:

“On behalf of the European LGBTI movement, we sincerely congratulate Ireland, its politicians, human rights activists and the Irish people for taking such an important step towards a society where all people can enjoy the benefits and protections of the institution of marriage regardless of their gender and sexual orientation. Our Board, who is meeting in Dublin on this historic day, is delighted to witness the referendum result first-hand. Although it is our firm stand that human rights issues should not be put to a referendum, the specificities of the Irish system required this vote and we are very happy to see that human rights have indeed prevailed as a result of this process.”

Joyce Hamilton, Co-Chair of ILGA-Europe’s Executive Board, added:

“The Irish people have spoken. Their message is clear – they want to live in a society which embraces and includes everyone, a society that affirms that equality is part of its core values. Beyond the positive outcome of the vote, the campaign itself has proved to be an extraordinary example of profound social change, openness and compassion. Today’s legal change cements an admirable and inspirational change in people’s hearts and minds in the country’s constitution.”

Full article.