Pride and grooms: Leo helps Jerry tie knot
Taoiseach Leo Varadkar and partner Matthew Barrett (right) were guests at the wedding of Fine Gael politician Jerry Buttimer and Conchobhar Ó Laoghaire in Triskel, Co Cork. Senator Buttimer (50) exchanged vows with his long-time partner in a special lunchtime ceremony at the Triskel Arts Centre. Photo: Michael Mac Sweeney/Provision.
THE Fine Gael politician who helped spearhead the marriage equality referendum yesterday celebrated his own wedding.
Senator Jerry Buttimer (50) exchanged wedding vows with his long-time partner, Conchobar Ó Laoghaire, in a special lunchtime ceremony at the Triskel Arts Centre in Co Cork.
The ceremony was attended by family, friends, neighbours and political colleagues.
The guests included Taoiseach Leo Varadkar, former Taoiseach Enda Kenny, Tánaiste Simon Coveney, Housing Minister Eoghan Murphy, Social Protection Minister Regina Doherty, Fine Gael chairman Martin Heydon, TDs Joe Carey, Mary Mitchell O’Connor and Alan Farrell, Senator Paudie Coffey and former Heath Minister James Reilly.
Also present was Mr Buttimer’s brother, councillor John Buttimer, a former lord mayor of Cork.
The former Cork South Central TD said he was “absolutely delighted” – but was also relieved that he had a quiet Christmas to build up to his special day, rather than having to fight a general election campaign.
“I’m delighted – I am becoming one with the man I love and adore,” he added.
The Cork politician also quipped that, in an age old Cork tradition to ensure good weather for a wedding, he had displayed a Child of Prague statue.
He was delighted his wedding took place in winter sunshine.