Businesses have ‘right’ to decline services for same-sex marriages– TD

An Independent TD has raised concerns that a Bill to ensure the implementation of same-sex marriage if the referendum is passed will not include a conscientious objection clause. Tipperary TD Mattie McGrath said he was “not at all confident that the Bill will provide for conscientious objection to safeguard people, businesses and other institutions who may be compelled to provide services for same-sex marriages”.

 “People in business have no protection whatsoever to stand up for what they believe in. They are left completely open to being sued and that’s not fair,” he told The Irish Catholic.

Mr McGrath raised the issue in a written question to the Department of Justice in the Dáil recently. Responding on behalf of the Government, Justice Minister Frances Fitzgerald reiterated the Government’s commitment that the freedom of religion of religious solemnisers would be guaranteed.

The minister failed, however, to respond to questions regarding persons,businesses and other institutions who may be compelled to participate in, or provide services for the celebration of same-sex marriages.

Minster Fitzgerald confirmed her department is engaged in the development of the Implementation Bill which will be brought forward if the same-sex marriage referendum is passed in May.  

“That Bill will be designed to make the necessary adjustments in existing law, including marriage law, to ensure that the decision of the people is implemented. The issue of guaranteeing the freedom of religion of religious solemnisers will be addressed in that context,” she said.
Responding to the minster’s remarks, Mr McGrath likened the Implementation Bill to the Children and Family Relationships Bill which he warned has “huge consequences for families”.

“The Implementation Bill will probably be given similar debating time as the Children and Family Relationships Bill which is being merely glossed over and given a token reading in the Dáil.

“Nobody wants to turn away business but some people that run businesses have deeply held convictions and they should have the right to decline if they wish,” he said.