National Women's Council Launch North-West Yes/Yes Campaign

The National Women's Council, joined by local politicians, convened in Sligo this past Saturday to launch the Yes/Yes campaign in support of the upcoming referendum scheduled for March 8th. The campaign aims to garner public support for a Yes vote on two crucial issues: the Care Referendum and the Family Referendum. 

Removing sexist language from the Constitution is at the forefront of the Care Referendum, emphasizing the principle that a woman's place is wherever she chooses it to be. By voting YES, supporters demand clear legal recognition of this principle, paving the way for an inclusive society where everyone who provides care is properly acknowledged. 

Furthermore, the referendum aims to recognize and support all forms of care, including family care. By replacing outdated language with a clause that acknowledges family care, voters are advocating for a society where caregivers receive the support and recognition they deserve. 

In the Family Referendum, the focus is on valuing all families equally. This includes ensuring that every child is recognized as part of a family, regardless of their parents' marital status. The referendum also seeks to acknowledge and support one-parent families, unmarried parents, and families where grandparents or other relatives are primary caregivers for children. 

Proposed changes to the Constitution will expand the definition of family beyond marriage to encompass other 'durable relationships.' This move is aimed at providing legal protection and equal recognition to all families, irrespective of their structure or composition. 

The Yes/Yes campaign emphasizes the importance of recognizing and valuing all families equally. By voting YES on March 8th, voters can contribute to building a fairer, more inclusive, and modern society that respects the diversity of family structures. 

With these compelling reasons in mind, the Yes/Yes campaign urges voters to support the referendum on March 8th and make their voices heard in shaping the future of Ireland's constitutional landscape. 

Bernie Linnane, Labour candidate for Manorhamilton LEA, expressed her endorsement for a Yes/Yes vote, emphasising the urgent need to modernize the Constitution. "I'm asking for a YesYes vote to bring our Constitution into the 21st Century, with equality for all families, and long overdue recognition for all family carers." she stated. 

Adam Ó Ceallaigh, Green Party Candidate for Ballinamore LEA, highlighted the importance of reflecting modern Irish values in the Constitution. "I am young enough to have never known an Ireland that was not progressive and forward thinking. It is important that our constitution is updated to reflect modern Irish values," said Ó Ceallaigh.

Bláithín Gallagher, Green Party Candidate for Manorhamilton LEA, echoed the sentiment, stating, "It's time to change our constitution. I am asking for a Yes/Yes vote on March 8th. We need to make sure that our country represents everyone and that our constitution is inclusive and that we recognise families as they actually exist today."