Study Into LGBT Parenting In Ireland Welcomed

Labour Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender (LGBT) has welcomed the publication of the first large scale study into the experiences of LGBT people in Ireland who are parents or are planning parenthood. The groundbreaking research was carried out by LGBT Diversity and was launched in Dublin yesterday by Senator Katherine Zappone.

Speaking after the launch, John Lyons TD, Co-Chair of Labour LGBT, said: "We welcome the launch of this research. It clearly shows that many LGBT people are parenting in modern Ireland. In this respect, it is first and foremost a heart-warming glance at human lives. The findings of the report show both positive and negative experiences of LGBT parents including discrimination, legal issues and access to services.

"We welcome the fact that the Minister for Justice and Equality, Alan Shatter TD, has stated that the rights of children being parented by same-sex couples will be recognised in legislation he is preparing

this year. Labour in government has always led the way in bringing about progressive social change and we are determined that equality for same-sex families and children will be delivered upon."

Louise Hannon, Co-Chair of Labour LGBT, said: "Through this important report, we hear the strong voices of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender parents. The fact that 46% of LGBT parents have

experienced direct discrimination within the past five years is of real concern, as is LGBT people co-parenting children being prevented from doing such mundane things such as signing a sick note for their child or collecting them from school. Children suffer when their LGBT parents are denied the legal protections afforded to other family units."

(CD/GK)