New working group to examine civil-partnership options
20/12/2005 - 12:29:03Minister for Justice Michael McDowell has announced the establishment of a working group to examine the options available to the Government in the area of civil partnerships.
The move follows the introduction of new laws in Britain that allows gay couple to register their relationship in marriage-like ceremonies.
The first of those weddings took place in Belfast yesterday morning.
Speaking after a meeting with members of the Irish gay and lesbian community today, Mr McDowell said he wanted the working group to present its findings on the matter by next March.
The establishment of the group was welcomed by the Gay and Lesbian Equality Network, which said it hoped the move would lead to a recognition that homosexual men and woman are free and equal citizens.
