YOU’VE SCOT TO CHANGE SAME SEX MARRIAGE LAW

Political leaders unite to support call for introduction of equality

BACKING Nicola Sturgeon and, inset, Ruth Davidson

SCOTLAND’S top politicians have issued a call for the introduction of same-sex marriage in Northern Ireland.

First Minister and SNP leader Nicola Sturgeon, Scottish Conservative chief Ruth Davidson, Labour’s Kezia Dugdale, Patrick Harvie from the Green Party and Liberal Democrat Willie Rennie all voiced support for the move. Their intervention comes ahead of a major demonstration in Belfast today. The region is the only part of the UK and Ireland where same-sex marriage remains outlawed. The issue is one of a series of sticking points holding up the formation of a new Stormont Executive. The DUP opposition to changing the law has attracted increased scrutiny across the UK since the party became the Government’s kingmaker at Westminster. Ms Sturgeon said she was proud gay marriage had been introduced in Scotland. She added: “The debate over equal marriage in Scotland did more than just simply allow people to marry, it also helped to challenge negative attitudes that still exist today in our society towards LGBTI people and show, quite simply, that same-sex couples are just as valued as opposite-sex couples. “I offer my support to those continuing the campaign for marriage equality in Northern Ireland.” Scottish Tory leader Ms Davidson said: “I’m proud to support those campaigning for marriage equality and I’m optimistic this is a battle that can be won. Equal marriage isn’t about one religion or country or community. It’s much simpler than that. “At its heart, equal marriage is about the people of Northern Ireland being afforded the same rights as everybody else. “So as thousands march in Belfast this Saturday, I have this message for them. Change is coming. And it’s a change for the better.” Scottish Labour leader Ms Dugdale echoed the comments. She said: “Scotland, England, Wales and the Republic of Ireland have all now backed equal marriage, and it has been liberating and encouraging to see such progress make the news and headlines in places around the world where marriage equality is sadly still so far away. “I’m backing the campaign for marriage equality in Northern Ireland.”