Legislation for same-sex civil partnerships in Ireland will not mimic marriage
The Minister for Justice Michael McDowell has said that legislation is being written for civil partnerships for same-sex couples here in Ireland but that it will not mimic marriage exactly, as that would be unconstitutional.
Mr McDowell said that the Republic is committed to recognising equality in the proposals, which will be enacted next year.
From today, same-sex couples can register their partnerships in the UK, including in the six counties.
Gay marriage ceremonies will be allowed, under the act, from December 19th in the North, Scotland on the 20th and England and Wales the following day.
Gay and Lesbian couples in the North will now have the same rights as married heterosexuals in terms of tax, pensions and state benefits.
