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28/10/2016
First Minister Accused Of Being 'Disingenuous' Over Same-Sex Marriage
First Minister Arlene Foster has been accused of being "disingenuous" after suggesting online trolling has made her more determined to continue blocking same-sex marriage.
However, Alliance Leader Naomi Long said it would not stop her bringing the legislation forward.
Mrs Long said: "For Arlene Foster to suggest online trolling has made her more determined is unbefitting her leadership role. Punishing the entire LGBT community for the behaviour of a small number of trolls is both childish and unjust. It is also disingenuous, as her party has always fully resisted any progress towards full equality for LGBT people.
"I respect the DUP have a mandate to oppose equal marriage, but they can fulfil that commitment by voting against any proposals. They do not need to use the petition of concern to overrule a democratic majority and it is disappointing they still appear committed to doing so."
Sinn Féin MLA Sean Lynch said it is disappointing the DUP has blocked the progress again.
He said: "This is first and foremost an equality issue and Sinn Féin is committed to seeing marriage equality extended across the island and we will continue to work toward full equality and human rights for our LGBT+ community.
"Sinn Féin will now bring forward a Private Members Bill on marriage equality. I hope it will receive support from MLAs across the political spectrum."
(CD)
However, Alliance Leader Naomi Long said it would not stop her bringing the legislation forward.
Mrs Long said: "For Arlene Foster to suggest online trolling has made her more determined is unbefitting her leadership role. Punishing the entire LGBT community for the behaviour of a small number of trolls is both childish and unjust. It is also disingenuous, as her party has always fully resisted any progress towards full equality for LGBT people.
"I respect the DUP have a mandate to oppose equal marriage, but they can fulfil that commitment by voting against any proposals. They do not need to use the petition of concern to overrule a democratic majority and it is disappointing they still appear committed to doing so."
Sinn Féin MLA Sean Lynch said it is disappointing the DUP has blocked the progress again.
He said: "This is first and foremost an equality issue and Sinn Féin is committed to seeing marriage equality extended across the island and we will continue to work toward full equality and human rights for our LGBT+ community.
"Sinn Féin will now bring forward a Private Members Bill on marriage equality. I hope it will receive support from MLAs across the political spectrum."
(CD)
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Northern Ireland WeatherThis Evening and Tonight:It will be cloudy. Also mainly dry at first this evening but then occasional outbreaks of rain developing overnight. Light southwest winds, and staying mild. Minimum temperature 9 °C.
