The Republic of Ireland may follow the United Kingdom in legalizing same-sex relationships.

Justice Minister Michael McDowell met with LGBT community leaders in Dublin following the first civil partnership ceremonies in the UK and announced a the creation of a government committee to examine ways of recognizing gay unions.

McDowell said that the working group would look at various options and make recommendations to the government in March.

"Our view is that the center of gravity in Ireland has shifted," said McDowell. "Irish people know that being fair to everyone in the community is good for the community."

This week's meeting between the minister and the Gay and Lesbian Equality Network (GLEN) was the latest of a series of discussions over the past few months.

"We are arguing for equality of rights and responsibilities in relationships, we are arguing for civil marriages," said Kieran Rose, GLEN chairperson. "This is the last measure to finally declare lesbians and gay men are full and equal citizens in Ireland," he said.

McDowell said he also would support amendments to Ireland's immigration laws saying he believed the current laws were hampering foreign gay partners coming to Ireland and making it difficult for same-sex couples to have long-term relationships recognized.

He also said he supports adoption for same-sex couples adding that he believes gays and lesbians are "as good or as bad as heterosexual parents."

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This entry was posted on Saturday, December 24, 2005 at 11:35 AM. Want to discuss? Leave a comment below.