Flanagan apologises to gay and bisexual men over historic convictions

Justice Minister Charlie Flanagan has extended a “sincere apology” to people who were affected by the criminalisation of homosexuality in Ireland prior to 1993.

He was speaking in the Seanad during the debate on an all-party motion acknowledging the harm caused by criminalisation and apologising to those affected.

Homosexuality was decriminalised through the Criminal Law (Sexual Offences) Act 1993, passed by the Oireachtas on 24 June 1993.

Taoiseach Leo Varadkar will host a State event on Sunday to mark the 25th anniversary of the legislation.

Mr Flanagan said: “25 years ago this week, an important step was taken which changed the lives of many people in Ireland.

“The enactment of the Sexual Offences (Amendment) Act 1993 sought to repeal Victorian-era laws which criminalised members of our society, forcing them to conduct their personal and private lives in secret. Homosexual men in Ireland were ostracized, and criminalised, simply because of their sexual orientation.

“These laws caused immeasurable harm. Nothing that can be said here today can undo the unjust suffering and discrimination that the homosexual community experienced in the years prior to decriminalisation. As a Government, we must acknowledge those wrongs, and seek to improve lives for all members of our society so that they can live freely and without fear of discrimination.

“I am delighted to support the motion in this House today, which at its heart, offers an apology to all those affected by the criminalisation of consensual same-sex acts in Ireland prior to 1993. This motion is reflective of the Government’s commitment to ensuring that Ireland is a society for all people, an equal society, and a fair society.”