SDLP Foyle MP Mark Durkan has signed a parliamentary motion at Westminster this week welcoming recent progress on LGBT equality legislation in the Republic of Ireland and around the world – including the recent decision by the US Supreme Court to legalise gay marriage across all 50 states.
Mr Durkan, who is also supporting the campaign for LGBT equality in Northern Ireland, said: “The decisive 62% vote in favour of same-sex marriage in Ireland has served as a beacon of hope to the LGBT community around the world – including those who are still facing gross oppression and renewed persecution in some countries.
“The public in the South have also given a light of understanding which can help the debate in the North on civil marriage equality.
“I also commend the recent decision by the US Supreme Court to abolish any ban on same-sex marriage across all 50 states.
“This landmark decision will help advance marriage equality and is already making waves in courts and parliaments throughout Latin America.
“However, it is still illegal to be gay in 75 countries and is punishable by death in 10 – which highlights the vital need to ensure that the campaign for LGBT equality and acceptance continues.”