Irish Prime Minister Supports Equal Rights

"Our sexual orientation is not an incidental attribute. It is an essential part of who and what we are. All citizens, regardless of sexual orientation, stand equal in the eyes of our laws. Sexual orientation cannot, and must not, be the basis of a second-class citizenship. Our laws have changed, and will continue to change, to reflect this principle. I want to state clearly today that the Government is unequivocally in favour of treating gay and lesbian people as fully equal citizens in our society." Irish Prime Minister (Taoiseach) Bertie Ahern, April 3, 2006