Proposed conversion therapy ban welcomed by Kildare councillor

A Social Democrats councillor for the Newbridge area has said he would 'proudly welcome' proposed legislation making conversion therapy a crime.

Members of the LGBTQI+ community are often targeted by these practices.

Earlier this month, a Kildare-based Senator, Fiona O'Loughlin, called for laws banning conversion therapy to be enacted 'without delay.'

Now, Cllr Chris Pender, who is himself openly-gay, has also commented about the proposed law: "Conversion therapy is a horrifying and harmful practice that aims to change a person's sexual orientation through psychological intervention, and it will no longer be tolerated.

"While I appreciate that research has indicated that these activities are infrequent in Ireland, they do occur, and this in itself demonstrates the need for this legislation."

Social Democrats councillor Chris Pender.

He continued: "I firmly believe that it is our duty to protect our citizens from the detrimental effects of conversion therapy.

"We cannot sit back and watch while people seek to suppress, destroy, or transform someone's gender identity or sexual orientation, causing serious harm to their well-being.

"The bill's heads will be introduced before the summer, with pre-legislative scrutiny in the autumn, and it is critical that this is progressed as quickly as possible so that we can ensure we can defend and protect the rights and mental health of our community members."

"I am committed to advocating for the rights and well-being of all constituents, and this legislation is a significant step forward for a more compassionate and inclusive society," Cllr Pender concluded.