Today, the Department of Social Protection has begun accepting application forms from trans people wishing to be legally recognised in their true gender, a historic moment for the trans community of Ireland.
Speaking at a press conference alongside Tánaiste Joan Burton, Minister Humphreys and Dr Lydia Foy, TENI Chief Executive Broden Giambrone said, “Today is an incredible day and a historic moment for the trans community in Ireland. This is the first day we will be seen as who we truly are. Trans people finally exist in the eyes of the State.”
“Today also marks the end of Dr Lydia Foy’s twenty-two-year journey to be legally recognised. I want to commend her courage and tenacity,” Giambrone added.
“TENI would also like to thank Tánaiste Burton and Minister Humphreys for their leadership and vision. This legislation is compassionate, progressive and affirms our human rights. We must also thank all of our allies in the Dáil and Seanad for their support and hard work to get this legislation passed.”
The new legislation was signed into law last week by President Michael D. Higgins and makes Ireland one of the global leaders in trans rights. Ireland is just one of five countries that have legislation based on self-determination.
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