Teachers at Catholic-run institutions will no longer need to fear adverse treatment as a result of being open about their sexuality in the workplace.

Employment Equality Bill (Miscellaneous Provisions) 2013, the new law to amend the controversial Section 37 provisions, means that LGBT employees will no longer have to conceal their sexuality or gender identity in the workplace out of fear of dismissal.

Previously, denominational institutions, such as schools and hospitals, were entitled to dismiss employees if their sexuality conflicted with their religious ethos.

Campaigners have welcomed the changes, hailing it as an historic day for the LGBT community.

The INTO LGBT Teachers Group, who have campaigned on this issue for over ten years, have stated:

“The INTO LGBT Teachers group welcomes the changes to section 37.1 of the Employment Equality Acts as amended, as a positive step towards inclusivity in schools.

“The changes strengthen employment protection for LGBT Teachers working in publicly funded denominational schools in the Republic of Ireland. The professional and private lives of teachers have legislative protection and this marks an end to the chilling effect for LGBT Teachers.”