THE GOVERNMENT is to press ahead with its civil partnership legislation, Taoiseach Brian Cowen insisted.
He said that the programme for Government contained a commitment on the matter. "We will fulfil that commitment within the current constitutional context and developing case law. "It is imperative to stress that the general scheme of the civil partnership Bill has been drafted within a constitutional framework that gives express protection to the institution of marriage.''
The Taoiseach was responding to Fine Gael leader Enda Kenny, who said he noted the comments made on Tuesday by Cardinal Seán Brady. A spokesman for the Catholic Communications Office, said Mr Kenny, had expressed concern that the legislation might undermine the constitutional provision which protected marriage.
"I ask the Taoiseach to take cognisance of that in supporting the case for measures on civil partnership in respect of taxation and other issues," said Mr Kenny.
"I assume that the Government will have regard for the special provision on marriage which is in the Constitution.''
Mr Cowen said the Government's legislative programme provided for the publication early next year of a Bill.
"The Attorney General has provided advice throughout the drafting process to ensure that the constitutional position on marriage is fully respected and in no way undermined.
"Civil partnership is a separate and distinct scheme which does not conflict with the special position of marriage.''
Replying to Labour leader Eamon Gilmore, he said he could not indicate when exactly the Bill would be published next year.
