Homosexuality decriminalisation apology motion
Mary Lou McDonald welcomed the motion marking the 25th anniversary of decriminalisation and the proposed apology for those convicted under the old law. The Minister for Justice said an all-party motion had been expected, but confirmed the debate would take place that afternoon.
It might be helpful if the Taoiseach or the Government circulated a note summarising the advice on the legislation.
I want to raise a different matter - the motion to be debated this evening both here and in the Seanad on the 25th anniversary of the decriminalisation of homosexuality. I welcome the motion and the notion of an apology to those who were convicted under what was, frankly, an abhorrent and disgusting law. Given that homosexuality was only decriminalised 25 years ago, we know that there are men who still hold convictions. Senator Fintan Warfield has tabled an amendment which calls for the establishment of a system to quash those convictions, as well as a ban on what is called conversion therapy and for the LGBTI community to be protected under hate crime legislation. Will the Taoiseach support these three things?
Comment on this
It was my understanding an all-party motion had been agreed to reflect the unanimous viewpoint of this House, but I understand from Deputy Mary Lou McDonald that that is no longer the case. However, a debate will take place this afternoon, during the course of which the matters addressed by the Deputy can be dealt with.