by Rex Wockner
International News Briefs
Ireland's government has introduced a civil partnership bill in Parliament, where it should pass easily. The law is expected to be in effect by the end of the year.
The measure extends to registered same-sex couples nearly all rights and obligations of marriage.
However, most gay activist groups have denounced the plan, saying it amounts to second-class status for same-sex couples. The organizations have cited inequalities in the areas of inheritance, taxation and children's rights.
"The bill is forcing lesbians and gay men to accept a second-rate set of rights, and ensures that lesbian and gay relationships will be regarded as inferior to married couples," said the group MarriagEquality, urging that gay couples be granted access to marriage instead.
The group Equals likewise complained, "Civil partnership will create a two-tier society and will legislate gay and lesbian people into inequality."
On June 26, activists protested against the measure outside Leinster House, seat of the two houses of Parliament, the Dail Eireann and the Seanad Eireann.
Activist Will St. Leger climbed atop a pillar and remained there for three hours before being arrested. He was later released without charge.
Protester Lisa Connell chained herself to the Dail gates. Police used a bolt cutter to remove her, then ordered her to leave the scene.
Meanwhile, thousands of people took part in Dublin's gay pride parade June 27. Marchers chanted: "What do we want? Marriage. When do we want it? Now."
