GLEN, Ireland’s Gay and Lesbian Equality Network, has issued a statement declaring that “Joan Burton, as Tánaiste, Labour Party Leader and Minister for Social Protection, made a critical contribution to LGBT Equality”

 
GLEN has issued a statement offering the former Tánaiste and leader of the Labour party praise for involvement in furthering LGBT equality.

Kieran Rose, Co-Chair of GLEN, says that Burton provided “critically important leadership on LGBT equality issues throughout the last Government which was one of the most progressive Governments in the history of the State for LGBT people, bringing forward the Marriage Referendum, Gender Recognition Legislation and Family legislation that fully included LGBT headed families”

Joan Burton was quite progressive when it comes to LGBT equality. Highlighting her role as Minister for Social Protection, GLEN indicates that it was Joan Burton who brought in the Gender Recognition Legislation in 2015 making Ireland the fourth country in the world to provide legislation which allows for self-declaration of gender.

“Deputy Joan Burton has been a staunch ally and a consistent defender of LGBT rights over many years in the Oireachtas and in Government,” Rose asserts.

“Ms. Burton has left a far-reaching legacy for LGBT people during her time as Labour Party leader and as Tánaiste – a legacy which impacts on the lives of every LGBT person in Ireland and their families.”

While other western countries such as Northern Ireland continue to block marriage equality, Burton was an important figure in the marriage referendum campaign and this legacy will be remembered.

“Her role in the marriage referendum campaign and in advancement of LGBT rights in Ireland has been very significant and we in GLEN wish her well on her retirement as Labour Party Leader.

“Deputy Burton remains a member of Dáil Éireann and we look forward to continuing to work with her on ensuring that LGBT people are full and equal participants in all aspects of Irish society”

For all your hard work and progressing LGBT rights, for making Ireland a more equal place, thank you!