Justice Minister Frances Fitzgerald has sought to reassure those who voted against same-sex marriage in the referendum in May. She told the Dail on Wednesday, while introducing the new Marriage Bill,  that the institution had not been weakened as a result of introducing same-sex marriage.

She said: “In the wake of those often passionate debates, it is important to acknowledge that many who voted ‘No’ did so in the belief that it was the right thing to do. Many voted ‘No’ because they feared that a treasured institution would change. I put it to those people now that there is nothing to fear. Marriage will not be weakened by people who passionately wish to be able to marry. Our concept of family will not be damaged by being more inclusive. Instead, marriage has been strengthened and made responsive to the needs of the 21st century. What has changed, unquestionably, is that our society has decided that our institutions have to reflect the diversity of society. Many LGBT people will find this society warmer and more hospitable as a result of the decision made by the people.”

She also said that religious freedom would be guaranteed because under Section 7 of the Bill religious celebrants will not to have officiate at same-sex marriage ceremonies.

 She claimed: “Section 7 demonstrates that the constitutional guarantee contained in Article 44 of the Constitution, namely, that each religious denomination shall have the right to manage its own affairs, is not undermined by this most recent constitutional change. What this means is that religious bodies will not be compelled to do anything by this legislation. They will have the choice to decide whether to solemnise same-sex marriages. I am aware that some religious denominations may decide or may already have decided to enable same-sex couples to marry in their ceremonies. There is nothing in this Bill or in the Civil Registration Act which will restrict them from carrying out the civil as well as religious aspects of these marriages. That decision will be up to them.”

However, opponents of same-sex marriage said that to guarantee freedom of religion the State would have to go much further than this and protect the conscience rights of those who do not believe in same-sex marriage and also the right of Church-run schools to continue teach that marriage can only be between a man and a woman.

At present, an INTO-backed programme called ‘Different Families, Same Love’ is being introduced to primary schools that is at odds with the Chrisian view of marriage and the family.