SF And Alliance Hit Out Following Decision On Same-Sex Marriage

Sinn Fein and the Alliance Party have hit out after a High Court judge dismissed two landmark challenges against the ban on same-sex marriage in Northern Ireland.

Mr Justice O'Hara rejected both cases and said it was for politicians and not a judge to decide the social policy in Northern Ireland.

An annonymous couple known as Petition X wanted their marriage in England recognised in Northern Ireland instead of having it downgraded to civil parternship.

Gráinne Close and Shannon Sickles, and Chris and Henry Flanagan-Kane took the second part of the challenge.

They had argued Northern Ireland's ban on same sex marriage breached their human rights and wanted a judicial review.

Sinn Fein MLA said the position of the DUP in relation to marriage equality remains "completely untenable".

Senator Fintan Warfield said: "The abuse of the petition of concern has gone on for too long and Sinn Féin will continue to be a vocal advocate for Marriage Equality and will stand with the LGBTQI community for an equality and rights-based society.

"I also want to pay tribute to those who took the case; Shannon Sickles and Grainne Close, Christopher and Henry Flanagan-Kane, and the couple known as Petition X.

"Sinn Féin commends their bravery."

Alliance South Belfast MLA Paula Bradshaw said the decision was "bitterly disappointing".

She said: "We're not trying to give the LGBT community extra rights, just the same rights as everyone else and I know there will be great disappointment and anger among the LGBT community at this outcome .

"While the result is not what the many who want to see Northern Ireland brought into line with the rest of the UK wanted to hear, it is also shameful that this issue was forced to be decided by the courts in the first place, especially when there is already a clear majority in the Assembly to move this issue forward."

(CD)