Equality Commission Enters LGBT Debate

Northern Ireland's Equality Commission has told the BBC that Stormont needs to take action to protect the rights of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) people living in Northern Ireland.

The Commission was reacting to the continued vetoing by the DUP of votes on the subject of gay marriage at Stormont.

Twice, the party has tabled petitions of concern. The party says it will veto future bids to introduce legislation.

The Equality Commission has told the BBC that it would support a change in law.

Northern Ireland is the only part of the UK where changes are not being considered.

In England and Wales, same-sex marriages are expected to be held next summer for the first time, while in Scotland, the legislation is on its way to being introduced.

DUP Health Minister Edwin Poots has also come under fire recently as he sought to prevent gay and unmarried couples from adopting and to ban gay man from donating blood.

Alliance MLA Dr Stephen Farry said: "This intervention from the Equality Commission is welcome. However, this has been a live issue in Northern Ireland for several years, and frankly the Equality Commission should have spoken out much earlier.

"Nevertheless, this intervention reinforces that same-sex marriage is a fundamental issue of equality. Extending the option of marriage to same-sex couples does not undermine the institution or detract from anybody else's option to get married. In a democratic society, everyone should have equal access to state-provided civil marriage.

"I acknowledge that it is an issue of huge sensitivity for many religious denominations and faith groups, which is why our party policy includes robust protections for faith groups and religious celebrants so that they will not be forced to conduct same sex marriage ceremonies or have them conducted on their premises."

Sinn Féin Chief Whip Caitriona Ruane said: "Sinn Féin has twice brought motions calling for marriage equality in the Assembly only to be blocked by motions of concern from the DUP.

"The statement tonight from the Equality Commission that they support same-sex marriage as it is a fundamental equality matter is a welcome step in the campaign for marriage equality.

"The Commission has recognised that many parties need to show leadership in bringing about the changes needed for real equality for the GLBT community. I also believe that this extends to individual members who while purporting to support equality disappear at the first sign of a debate on marriage equality.

"Marriage equality threatens no one or any religious doctrine and Sinn Fein has promised to continue to raise the issue in the Assembly until is implemented into legislation that gives all couple equal legal rights in marriage."

(IT/MH)