The Irish Overwhelmingly Support Gay Marriage

In a Lansdowne Market Research poll, which was commissioned by the Gay and Lesbian Equality Network (GLEN) and conducted last month, an overwhelming majority of Irish people believe that the relationships of same-sex couples should be legally recognized.

51 percent of the respondents believe that lesbian and gay couples should have access to civil marriage, while a further 33 per cent believe that same-sex couples should have access to full Civil Partnership. These majorities extend across the whole country.

“We are delighted to see that Irish people appreciate that same-sex couples are living in long-term relationships and deserve public recognition and protection for their relationships," said GLEN's Chief Executive Office, Keith O’Malley. "GLEN is seeking equality in marriage for lesbian and gay couples with equality in rights and responsibilities.”

The Lansdowne Survey confirmed a continued growth in support in Ireland for legal recognition for same-sex relationships. In surveys in February 51 per cent, and in October, 64 per cent supported legal recognition.

“Irish people have experienced significant change in recent years," said Kieran Rose, Chairman of GLEN. "They have largely managed that change because they have taken an open minded approach. We believe that failure to recognize marriage for same-sex couples is a relic of the past. Attitudes are now more open and most people accept that recognizing a stable and loving relationship, same-sex or otherwise, is simply the right thing to do. The government should now enact legislation to provide for equality in civil marriage for same-sex couples.”

93 per cent of people surveyed also believe that children in same-sex households should have the same legal rights as children in other family units.

Keith O’Malley added: “Many same-sex couples in Ireland are currently raising children. These children and their families are currently in a state of limbo and it is imperative that they enjoy the full protection of the law. An overwhelming majority of Irish people agree.”