Unionists vote down Stormont marriage equality motion

» John Hedges

An Phoblacht Editor

‘What churches do is a matter for churches but the state needs to treat everyone with equality’

A MARRIAGE EQUALITY motion tabled by Sinn Féin at the Assembly in Stormont has been defeated 53 to 42.

Sinn Féin MLA Caitríona Ruane expressed her disappointment at the vote, saying:

“The opposition to the marriage equality motion was predictable from the fundamentalists who have attempted to deny equality to people throughout their political life.

“The issue of marriage equality does not threaten anybody nor does it attack the sacrament of marriage in the various religious institutions but rather is more about equality and rights.”

The Sinn Féin motion was moved by Bronwyn McGahan, who said she respected there were deeply-held religious, cultural and personal views on the issue but MLAs “regardless of religious belief, represent every section of our community, including our LGBT members and this motion is about ensuring marriage equality for everyone regardless of their sexual orientation.

“What churches do is a matter for churches but the state needs to treat everyone with equality.”

The motion called for the Assembly to recognise the significance of the recent Constitutional Convention held in Dublin and asked the Executive to bring forward the necessary legislation to allow for same-sex marriage in the Six Counties. The motion read:

“That this Assembly recognises the importance of the Constitutional Convention; notes the participation of parties from the Assembly; welcomes the 79% majority vote at the Constitution in favour of marriage equality; and calls on the Executive to bring forward the necessary legislation to allow for same-sex marriage.”

John O’Doherty from the gay rights Rainbow Project said after the vote:

“This will be won slowly so we appreciate every vote that we got. We are disappointed with the outcome.

“It has always been a difficult march towards equality here but we will continue to fight the good fight.”