The policy statement welcomes the proposed referendum, stating that “the opening out of civil marriage to two persons, without distinction as to their sex, is a matter of equality and human rights” and “to promote access to civil marriage and to enhance full protection of family life for all couples, without distinction as to their sex, the referendum is an important step”.

The Irish Council for Civil Liberties (ICCL), Marriage Equality and the Gay and Lesbian Equality Network (GLEN) warmly welcome today’s publication.

A joint statement from the groups reads:

The Commission’s statement clearly and unambiguously identifies the opening out of civil marriage to two persons, without distinction as to their sex, as a matter of equality and human rights.

After reviewing human rights and equality standards and case-law from other countries, the Commission has made very clear that the Constitution currently does not provide full recognition for same-sex couples that would underpin wider equality for people in Irish society.

It further takes the view that the Government’s decision to hold a referendum on the matter is ‘an important step’.

The ICCL, GLEN and Marriage Equality warmly welcome this most valuable contribution by the Commission, which places renewed focus on what the upcoming marriage equality referendum is really about: extending equality to all couples under the Irish Constitution.

The referendum on marriage equality in Ireland will take place in May.