Decision on marriage equality in May – Buttimer

Fine Gael Press Office
Jerry Buttimer TD
Cork South Central
Chair of Fine Gael LGBT

Decision on marriage equality in May – Buttimer

“We now have five months to plan for the marriage equality referendum and what will hopefully be a landmark day for social equality in this country”, says Fine Gael Cork South Central TD and Chair of Fine Gael LGBT, Jerry Buttimer. Deputy Buttimer was speaking after the announcement that the marriage equality referendum will take place next May.

“The announcement by Minister for Justice, Frances Fitzgerald TD, that the marriage equality referendum will take place in May 2015, is really welcome. The announcement will focus minds on the issues and what needs to be done to get this over the line. We now know we have five months to plan a really good campaign resulting in what will hopefully be a landmark day for social equality in this country.

“What does a good campaign look like in this context? It must be persuasive and convincing. Despite the strong poll showings for the yes vote so far, there is no room for complacency here.

“Talk to your friends, your family, your colleagues and neighbours, and explain to them why equality for all is for the betterment of society as a whole.

“As a gay man and member of Fine Gael, I am immensely proud that this referendum has been brought forward by this Fine Gael/ Labour Government. However the hard work is only starting now. We must be fully committed to this campaign and leave no stone unturned in explaining the importance of a yes vote. I truly believe the referendum will be passed and that Ireland will be lauded across the world as a leader in social justice and equality.”