In Ireland’s proposed Gender Recognition Bill, trans people will no longer need medical testimony to legally change their gender.

Yesterday it was decided that Ireland’s Gender Recognition Bill will no longer make it necessary for trans people over the age of 18 to have medical or psychological testimony to legally change their gender. The amendment to the bill will only require the self-declaration of the person, instead of a certificate from a medical practitioner.

Speaking after the Cabinet meeting, the Tánaiste Joan Burton said, “Throughout the drafting of this Bill, I have listened carefully to the views of individual citizens, representative groups and public representatives. […] That is why we are moving to a self-declaration model for people aged 18 and over. This approach will have no impact on the treatment pathway which is completely separate from the civil registration process.”

The bill has also excluded the necessity for divorce for trans people and their married partners due to the passing of the marriage referendum.

Minister of State Kevin Humphreys explained, “As the marriage equality referendum has been passed there is no Constitutional barrier to a person in a marriage or civil partnership having their preferred gender legally recognised.”

Last year, the previous Gender Recognition Bill proposal was condemned by Amnesty International, who criticised the need for parental consent for those under the age of 18 and medical testimony for all trans people. Ireland’s move to adopt legislation based on self-declaration means that Ireland will join Malta, Argentina and Denmark as trailblazers in the area of trans rights.

“Transgender Equality Network Ireland (TENI) applauds the Government for this hugely significant move. Ireland has now taken its place as an international leader in this human rights area,” said TENI Chief Executive Broden Giambrone.

“The Government has shown great vision and conviction in ensuring the rights of trans people. This legislation will significantly improve the lived realities of trans people in Ireland.”

TENI Chair Sara R. Phillips added, “This is a momentous moment. To be given the respect to self-determine our gender is true equality. For once I can believe our community are seen as full equal citizens. Today I am so proud of our country.”

The necessary changes to the Gender Recognition Bill will be done by way of Committee Stage amendments in the Dáil. The legislation is scheduled to go to Committee Stage on June 17.